The National Human Rights Commission has taken cognizance of a Memorandum by the Meghalaya Chief Minister that 6 persons had died in firing by the Assam Police and Forest Guards in West Jaintia Hills District of Meghalaya.

The Commission has observed that the said incident has happened due to the border dispute between the states of Assam and Meghalaya.

"Prima-facie, it appears that, had this dispute been settled, such type of incident would have been averted. Whatsoever may be the dispute between the States, Police has to use restrain in such situations. Therefore, it would want to get examined the S.O.P. in operation, if any, about firing by Armed Forces/Police in areas of a border dispute between neighbouring States.", the press release by NHRC read.

The Commission has sought the response of the Union Home Secretary and the Chief Secretary, Government of Assam to examine and evolve mechanisms/suggest measures to prevent such types of incidents.

"…the Commission has transmitted the Memorandum to the Home Secretary, Government of India, and the Chief Secretary, Government of Assam, Dispur. They are to examine and evolve mechanisms/suggest measures to prevent such types of incidents, particularly in areas in which there is a border dispute between neighbouring States. The response is expected in two weeks.", the press release dated November 29, 2022 read.

The Commission has stated that allegedly, the incident ensued chasing of a truck carrying timber, by the Assam Police and Assam Forest Guards.

The truck was detained in Mukroh village by these Forces. The villagers of Mukroh became agitated upon the entry of the Assam Police in their village.

They surrounded the Assam Police and Assam Forest Guards, consequent upon this firing took place.

NHRC is responsible for promoting and monitoring effective implementation of promotion and protection of human rights.

Human RightsNational Human Rights Commission

Ashish Shaji