Black flags flutter at several locations in Shillong on Independence Day; Mobile internet service snapped

Aug 15: Surrendered Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) Chesterfield Thangkhiew died in the early hours on Friday in a retaliatory firing by Meghalaya police in Shillong. Following this, a widespread violence broke out in various parts of Shillong. While the entire nation was celebrating the 75th Independence Day by hoisting the tricolor, black flags were spotted in several locations in Shillong in protest against the ‘killing’ of surrendered HNLC leader Chesterfield Thangkhiew.

Members of TULBA, a bikers’ association also took out a motorcycle rally waving huge black flags to protest against the ‘killing’ of the former HNLC leader. Also unidentified ‘miscreants’ pelted stones at a police vehicle and trucks on Sunday morning.

Following this, the Meghalaya government has imposed a curfew in the East Khasi Hills district with effect from 8 pm today (Sunday). The four districts, where mobile internet services have been suspended are East Khasi Hills, West Khasi Hills, South West Khasi Hills and Ri-Bhoi district. The government also snapped mobile internet services for the next 48 hours with effect from 6 pm today (Sunday) in the four districts of the state.

The order under Section 144 CrPC was issued by the District Magistrate of East Khashi Hills District, Shillong on 15 August. The order will remain in force till 5 AM of 17 August, 2021. During the period of curfew. the following will be prohibited:

• Any public movement.
• Offices. shops and establishments. and educational institutions will remain closed.
• No kind of gathering. public meeting or rally may he held.
• Exemptions only for medical emergencies. Covid-19 and hospital duty are applicable as per existing orders.

It is in this connection that, GP Singh, Special Director General of Police (Assam) has advised the people of Assam not to travel to Shillong till the curfew continues.