Shillong, Aug 24: Violence marked the public hearing for expansion of Top Cem cement plant at Wahiajer in East Jaintia Hills, on Thursday.
Police said nine police personnel were injured in the incident.
Police resorted to the use of lathicharge and teargas after the mob turned violent during the public hearing on two occasions.
Destruction of properties especially chairs was reported.
According to the police, a camera of a reporter was also damaged.
East Jaintia Hills SP JS Dhanoa said a crowd numbering around 100-150 had protested against the proposed expansion of Top Cem cement.
The police could not act initially as women and children were part of the crowd which vandalised the pandal.
After the first venue was vandalised, there was an attempt to set it on fire but in vain.
After consultation with district administration and Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) officials, the venue was shifted.
The mob attacked second venue with the same intention and started pelting stones at the police party. “So to disperse the unruly mob reasonable force was used against them”, the SP said, adding that they were chased out of the cement company campus as they stated attacking the premises and vehicles parked there.
Later, speaking to reporters, government spokesperson Ampareen Lyngdoh said that one person was detained in connection with the incident.
“We are seeking a report from the deputy commissioner regarding the matter”, she added.
