Photo Courtesy: nenow
Shillong: Sohra officials shut down four major tourist spots on August 4 following a bitter ownership battle. The Sohra Civil Sub-Division issued prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita after violence threatened to erupt. Tensions between the villages of Laitduh, Umblai, Mawphu, and Laitlyndop under Hima Sohra are the cause.
The affected locations are Weisawdong Falls, Dainthlen Falls, Mawsawa Falls, and Arliang Riat View Point. Sub-Divisional Magistrate Mark A. Challam ordered a total stop to all sightseeing, commercial activity, and visitor entry at these spots and their approach roads. Authorities acted to stop potential clashes. “Immediate preventive measures are necessary to prevent danger to human life and property and to maintain public peace and tranquillity,” the order stated.
No one may collect entry fees, parking charges, or user fees unless they have official authorization. Public gatherings of five or more people are now illegal. The ban excludes government personnel on duty.
Officials also banned the possession of any weapons. The list includes firearms, traditional daos, swords, spears, bows and arrows, sticks, iron rods, catapults, and explosives. Violators face prosecution under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The restrictions are in effect until further notice.
Comments