Stone-pelters were paid, says Conrad

A Correspondent

Shillong, June 3: Meghalaya Chief Minister, Conrad Kongkal Sangma on Sunday alleged that the protestors who were involved in clashes with the police at Motphran and its adjoining areas were instigated to do so.

Speaking to media persons on Sunday, Conrad alleged that the stone pelting was fuelled by cash and alcohol.

However, the Chief Minister did not reveal the identity of the person(s) who funded the mob.

“Investigation is on to ascertain who are those involved. Like I told we have held discussions with stakeholders and they told us that those involved in the clashes were not known to them. The Rangbah Shnong (Headmen) after meeting us had assured that they would talk to the agitators to stop their protests but these people did not do so,” Conrad said.

The Chief Minister said that the government is still in the dark over the identity of the protestors.

He while lauding the police department for their role during the clashes, the Chief Minister said that the law enforcement agencies kept utmost restraint and did not use excessive force while dealing with the protestors.

Conrad pointed out the police personnel despite stones and petrol bombs were hurled at them kept their composure because initially, the state government had advised them to see that there are no injuries to the protestors.

The Chief Minister, however said that after deliberations with various stakeholders they found out that the protestors did not belong to any group it was then decided that authorities will use forces against them.

“Therefore, since yesterday (Saturday) the police with no other choice left have been acting firmly against them,” Conrad said.

He also informed that the police have started their investigation to find out those involved in funding the protestors.

“I will tell you the protestors were given alcohol and even money,” the Chief Minister alleged.

“A few among those arrested by the police have revealed that they got money,” Conrad said even as he added that the police department was investigation from where the cash are coming from. “The law will take stern action against those who are funding those people who are funding the protestors,” the Chief Minister warned.

He also informed that for 48 hours the police have been restraining themselves and that it was unfortunate that 30 police personnel were injured during that period which included the SP (city), Steve Rynjah.

Meanwhile, Conrad thanked the NGOs, even as he added that Delhi MLA and general secretary of the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee, Manjinder Singh Sirsa and its president of president ka Delhi Gurdwara Committee- Manjit Singh –for coming to the city to ascertain for themselves the ground reality.

He also said that rumours spread through social media will be investigated and the law will not pardon those involved. The Chief Minister also said that the current situation in the city is not communal in nature and the even the delegation from Delhi have found out for themselves that it was only a local issue.