Khliehriat, July 31: A vehicle was set ablaze at Moopat on Friday amid escalating tensions surrounding the public hearing for the proposed Shree Cement Ltd. project in East Jaintia Hills District.
The incident occurred against the backdrop of strong opposition to the proposed cement project from local residents and several civil society organisations, which have raised concerns over its potential impact on the area.
Protesters alleged that the government’s heavy deployment of police and security personnel to facilitate the public hearing contributed to the escalation of the confrontation. According to those opposing the project, the unrest was marked by road blockades, damage to vehicles, and injuries sustained by several individuals before and during the hearing.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the vehicle arson and other reported incidents of violence. Officials are working to identify those responsible for setting the vehicle on fire, as well as any individuals involved in acts of vandalism or intimidation reported during the unrest.
As of the time of publication, no official statement has identified those responsible for the arson. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation, and authorities have urged the public to refrain from drawing conclusions until the official inquiry is completed.
The developments come amid heightened tensions over the proposed Shree Cement project, which has sparked protests and drawn significant public attention in East Jaintia Hills. Authorities are expected to provide further updates as the investigation progresses.
