Shillong, August 22: The Shillong Khasi Jaintia Church Leaders Forum on Saturday convened an urgent prayer meeting in Shillong, appealing for peace, restraint and communal harmony following the violence and vandalism reported during the motorcycle rally organised by the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU).

Speaking to the media after the meeting, Forum president Bishop P. Lyngdoh and church leader Naba Chatterjee expressed deep concern over the prevailing situation and its potential impact on relations between the people of Meghalaya and neighbouring Assam.

The church leaders urged people across denominations and communities to remain calm, refrain from violence and avoid actions or statements that could further aggravate tensions. They said grievances and disputes should be addressed through established democratic processes and peaceful dialogue.

They also appealed to young people not to act impulsively, warning that violence and disruption can affect innocent commuters, workers, drivers and families whose livelihoods depend on uninterrupted movement between Meghalaya and Assam.

The Forum said representatives of different churches would continue consultations and were expected to issue a joint statement following another meeting. It also indicated that, if necessary, it would explore channels of dialogue aimed at restoring peace and normalcy.

Calling the people of Meghalaya “one community and one family,” the church leaders expressed hope that good sense would prevail and urged everyone to work together to overcome the present situation.