Shillong, Aug 19: Tension gripped Meghalaya’s capital on Wednesday after a Khasi Students’ Union bike rally descended into violence, leaving several injured and forcing authorities to beef up security across the city.
Hundreds of bikers carrying KSU flags rolled out in the afternoon to press student and community demands. Within an hour, the rally turned chaotic.
According to eyewitnesses, masked men attacked vehicles near the rally site in Laitumkhrah and Police Bazar. The assailants assaulted some participants and set at least two vehicles afire. Tyres were burnt on the road to block traffic and shops quickly downed shutters.
The situation worsened as the rally moved ahead. Government vehicles were not spared. Cars and bikes bearing Assam registration numbers were also vandalised. Stones were hurled and windshields were smashed in multiple locations.
Police and CRPF personnel rushed in and resorted to lathi-charge to disperse crowds. Tear gas was used in one locality after bike-borne groups allegedly tried to force shops to close.
Officials said they are yet to confirm the exact number of injured. Multiple people, including one rider and two bystanders, were rushed to nearby hospitals. At least 6 vehicles, including private cars and a city bus, sustained damage.
Police have not yet identified the masked individuals involved in the attacks. The district administration said an FIR has been registered and CCTV footage from key areas is being examined.
KSU leaders alleged that “outsiders” and “anti-movement elements” infiltrated the rally to provoke clashes and malign the protest.
“We respect democratic protest, but violence and destruction of public property will not be tolerated,” a senior police officer at the spot said.
Normalcy began returning by evening with additional forces deployed at major junctions. Internet services remained unaffected.
A peace meeting between KSU representatives and district officials is expected on Wednesday to discuss the fallout.
This is a developing story. Details on arrests and total damage are awaited as police continue verification.
