CM orders security pickets in violence-hit areas

Shillong, Feb 12 (PTI) Meghalaya Chief Minister MukulSangma today reviewed the security scenario in theethnic-violence hit border areas of East Garo Hills districtand instructed the administration to put up fixed securitypickets at the vulnerable points.

Sangma had a review meeting at Resubelpara circuithouse and then chaired a security meeting with districtofficials where he asked the police to put up checks at allthe entry and exit points of the state on routes connectingAssam in the district, official sources said.

"The CM asked the administration to be active andensure that the culprits involved in the ethnic violence arebrought to book. He also directed putting up of fix securitypickets at all the sensitive places," sources said.

Contemplating more assistance to the affected people,he also stressed the need for more confidence buildingmeasures and peace initiatives to make the peace long-lasting.

Chief Minister also distributed a compensation of Rs10,000 each and CGI sheets to the affected families presentlysheltered at a relief camp at Mendipathar College.

Currently there are 1168 refugees still sheltered inthe six relief camps in Meghalaya, while on Assam side thereare some 9,500 refugees displaced in the ethnic riots lastmonth.

Twelve people were killed, thousands of houses weretorched and nearly 50,000 people were displaced in the riotsin Meghalaya''s East Garo Hills and neighbouring Assam''sGoalpara district between January 1 and 9.