Meghalaya: After violence reports Sec 144 in Sohra, Sahsniang

Shillong: After the announcement of the results of the Meghalaya Assembly Elections 2023, several incidents of poll-related violence were reported from different parts of the state.

The incidents included stone pelting, burning of cars, and vandalism of public property, and were reported from areas such as Sohra and Mairang.
Additionally, in Sahsniang, the District Magistrate imposed a curfew after receiving reports of post-counting violence.
The West Jaintia Hills DC expressed fears that if the Meghalaya post-election violence is not addressed, it could escalate and spread, leading to destruction of property and possible loss of life. . A curfew has been announced to maintain law and order.
District Magistrate BS Sohliya said that in order to immediately stop the violence and restore public order in the area, a curfew under Section 144 CrPC has been imposed in Sahsniang village with immediate effect, and will continue till further orders.

In Sohra, violence broke out after a local news channel misrepresented Grace Mary Kharpuri, the NPP candidate from Sheila constituency, as the winning candidate instead of saying she was leading during the counting process. broke out This sparked outrage among NPP supporters, and when the results were announced with UDP candidate Balajied Synrem as the winner, they threw stones.
CEO Frederick Kharkongor said that CrPC 144 has been enforced in Sohra, and the situation is now under control.
Meanwhile, in Mairang, videos have surfaced on social media of Congress supporters demanding a recount of votes. UDP candidate Metbah Lyngdoh won the Mairang constituency by a margin of 155 votes, leaving Congress candidate Batskhem Ryntathiang in second place.
In the videos, supporters are seen pelting stones outside the DC’s office, prompting police to resort to tear gas to disperse the crowd. A car was also set on fire during the incident. However, further details are awaited from Mairang.