Student Group and Local Leaders Demand Probe into Police Tear Gas Use at Meghalaya Truckers' Protest

Shillong: The Jaintia Students Movement (JSM) has demanded a thorough inquiry into what it describes as the police's unwarranted deployment of tear gas during a non-violent demonstration by the Meghalaya Commercial Truck Owners and Drivers Association (MCTODA) in Mawryngkneng.

JSM President LS Rymbai strongly criticised the law enforcement response, labelling it an overreach that endangered lives and undermined core democratic principles. He pointed out that the tear gas affected bystanders, causing severe discomfort to everyday residents, including kids, pregnant women, and senior citizens.

Rymbai argued that the episode reflected a blatant violation of basic human rights, inflicting unnecessary harm on uninvolved individuals. He advocated for mandatory training in peaceful de-escalation techniques for officers and the abolition of rules that permit heavy-handed tactics against calm gatherings.

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He also slammed the state administration for tolerating such aggression, accusing it of prioritising control over citizen welfare. In a show of support for the victims, Rymbai pressed the government to swiftly address MCTODA's grievances while upholding protesters' freedoms.

In a similar vein, the Mawryngkneng Dorbar Shnong condemned the police's aggressive tactics toward the peaceful rally, asserting that the community rejects actions that breed anxiety and division.

Mawryngkneng Sordar Peter J. Lawai deemed the officers' behaviour intolerable and issued a stern caution about possible strong countermeasures if it continues. He charged officials with marginalising the Dorbar Shnong's traditional authority in local affairs, fueling growing frustration among villagers.

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Lawai stressed the urgency of meeting MCTODA's valid requests to avert broader instability in the region. He noted that the Dorbar had encouraged vigilance among locals against further overreactions by authorities, rather than mobilising mass assemblies.

Wrapping up, Lawai declared that the demonstration serves as a powerful signal to leaders: suppressing public expression, especially from underrepresented communities, will not be tolerated.