PHIDIM: Police fired shots in air in Khokling VDC of Panchthar district as tension ran high at a local school over a case of sexual harassment on Tuesday afternoon.

A police officer was hurt after enraged locals pelted stones at the security personnel who were deputed to control the situation.ASI Som Shrestha sustained injuries on his head.

The tension escalated during the meeting of Moti Higher Secondary School’s management committee after a group of local women raised voice against School Management Committee member Yuvaraj Thapa, who allegedly abused a local woman sexually, and demanded action against him.

The injured police official received primary treatment at the Khokling Area Health Post and was rushed to District Hospital for further treatment, according Santosh Thapa, a local resident.

After the women saw Thapa attending the meeting, they attacked him. They charged that police were protecting him.

Police said they have detained 12 women and another local for their involvement in the scuffle with police.