Shillong clashes: Curfew lifted for seven hours; people allowed to go out for essentials

After two days of relentless curfew in Shillong, the government on Sunday lifted the lockout for seven hours in order to allow people to get their essential commodities.

For past 2 days, life had come to a standstill in the capital of Meghalaya with government imposing a strict curfew following an altercation between state police personnel and stone pelters.

"Curfew would be lifted from 8 am to 3 pm tomorrow (Sunday) in curfew areas under Lumdiengjri Police Station and Cantonment Beat House areas to allow people to get their essential commodities," IANS quoted Peter S Dkhar, Deputy Commissioner in-charge, East Khasi Hills district.

The life is normal in other parts of the hill station and the examinations will take place on Sunday as per earlier schedules.

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The suspension of the internet on mobile services would, however, continue along with prohibiting the sale of petrol, diesel etc, in loose jerricans, bottles and any other containers to the public by all petrol pumps within the district.

"The situation is still tense but under control. The Army is on standby and will be deployed if the situation warrants. The district administration and the state police are making all efforts to restore peace and normalcy," Dkhar added further.

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The stringent curfew was imposed in areas under Lumdiengjri Police Station and Cantonment Beat House from 4 am on Friday in the wake of that massive clash in Motphran, Mawkhar and adjoining area.

(With inputs from agencies)