Security tightened in Meghalaya for Independence Day

Shillong, Aug 11 (UNI) Security has been beefed up in Meghalaya following various militants outfits call to boycott Independence Day celebrations in the region.

A high alert has been sounded in Garo Hills, particularly the areas bordering Asom, following an attack on security forces by the banned United Liberation Front of Asom.

The Naga regiment along with the paramilitary forces and state police have launched its 'Operation Drill' in the susceptible areas of Garo Hills.

The BSF have also kept an extra vigil along the Indo-Bangla border.

In the state capital, state police were seen conducting random checking of all vehicles passing through the city following the 24-hour bandh called by the banned Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council(HNLC).

In a statement issued to local dailies here last night, HNLC publicity secretary Sainkupar Nongtraw said the bandh would be effective from 1800 hours of August 14 to 1800 hours of August 15 to ''protest the Indian Independence day celebration in Hynniewtrep land''.

However, the outlawed outfit has exempted patients and their relatives, churchgoers and the milkmen from the purview of the bandh.

State Director General of Police William Richmond Marbaniang said full security measures have been taken up and the state police are prepared to meet any eventuality.

''Mobile and patrol parties have been arranged for a smooth Independence Day celebration,'' the police chief asserted.

Meanwhile, the state police have arrested a suspected A'chik National Liberation Front cadre from Tura.

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