Shillong, August 20: East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal, IAS, on Thursday strongly condemned the incidents of assault, vandalism and arson reported during the motorcycle rally organised by the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) in Shillong.
Addressing the media, Baranwal said such acts had no place in a peaceful and civilised society and warned that they could seriously damage Meghalaya’s image as a national and international tourist destination. He also cautioned that such incidents could have repercussions for Meghalaya residents studying, working or seeking employment outside the State.
According to the Deputy Commissioner, the district administration had granted permission for the rally subject to strict conditions after receiving assurances from the organisers that it would remain peaceful. Around 200 security personnel were deployed along the rally route.
However, several incidents were reported at different locations during the nearly three-hour rally.
Baranwal said confirmed reports indicated that at least 16 people were assaulted, while vehicles were vandalised or set ablaze. Two statues, including those of national figures, were also damaged.
The Deputy Commissioner acknowledged that the administration’s response at certain locations may not have been adequate, as the incidents occurred rapidly and simultaneously at different places. He said the authorities would examine whether the intelligence inputs and security deployment had been sufficient.
Proposed Meeting With Chief Minister Did Not Materialise
Baranwal also disclosed that the district administration had attempted to facilitate a meeting between KSU leaders and Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on August 19.
Although the Chief Minister had reportedly expressed his willingness to meet the organisation, the proposed meeting did not materialise and the rally proceeded as scheduled.
Police Action at KSU Office
On the police operation at the KSU office in Jaïaw, the DC said personnel had gone there to identify and apprehend individuals allegedly involved in the violence.
He maintained that the police response was proportionate after a petrol bomb was allegedly hurled at the security personnel. Tear gas and one stun grenade were used to disperse the crowd, he said.
Baranwal clarified that the operation remained confined to the organisation’s office premises and was called off after community leaders intervened.
The administration regretted the inconvenience caused to nearby residents but maintained that there was no intention to disturb members of the public who were not involved in the incident.
FIRs Registered, Three KSU Leaders Apprehended
The Deputy Commissioner said FIRs had been registered and investigations were underway to identify all those involved in the violence.
He also said three leaders of the organisation had been apprehended.
Action would be initiated under the relevant laws to recover the cost of damage caused to public and private property from the individuals or organisation found responsible, Baranwal added.
Investigation Into Possible Infiltration
On allegations that outsiders or anti-social elements may have infiltrated the rally, the DC said it was too early to draw any conclusion.
He said video footage showing masked individuals carrying sticks and concealing vehicle registration plates would be examined as part of the investigation.
KSU Sit-in Permission Under Review
Baranwal further said the permission earlier granted for the KSU’s proposed sit-in protest would now be reviewed in light of the violence during the rally.
He appealed to Shillong residents, particularly those who may be feeling threatened, to remain calm and immediately contact the police or district administration if they faced any danger.
Additional security forces, including Central Armed Police Forces, have been deployed across Shillong to prevent further disturbances and restore public confidence, the Deputy Commissioner said.
