By IANS,
New Delhi: Meghalaya has asked for deployment of the army in the riot-hit areas along the Meghalaya-Assam border to restore peace, Chief Minister Mukul Sangma said here Saturday.
“We are seeking additional forces. We have also asked for the deployment of the army for which I have written to the defence minister,” Sangma told reporters on the sidelines of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas.
“The situation is tense but under control. Both the governments (Assam and Meghalaya) have taken up the matter with the centre. It has to be dealt with a firm hand. We are constantly in touch with the Assam government on this,” he added.
Over 30,000 people have been displaced from their homes so far due to ethnic clashes between Garo and Rabha tribals along the Assam-Meghalaya border. Eight people have been killed in the clashes.
“We want normalcy to return and the displaced people to return home. We had asked for five more companies from the centre and have got a green signal on that,” Sangma said.
“We appeal to all the community leaders to maintain peace,” he added.
Sangma is likely to meet Home Minister P. Chidambaram to discuss the issue.