Shillong, August 20: Meghalaya Home Minister and Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong on Thursday warned that individuals involved in vandalism, intimidation and disruption of public order would not be spared and could face action under the Meghalaya Preventive Detention Act (MPDA).

Tynsong issued the warning after chairing an emergency meeting to review the law-and-order situation following violence and damage to vehicles during the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) bike rally in Shillong on Wednesday.

The meeting was attended by DGP I. Nongrang, Chief Secretary Shakil P. Ahammed, East Khasi Hills SP Vivek Syiem, Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal and senior officials from the Home and Personnel departments.

The Deputy Chief Minister said police would scrutinise videos, photographs and other evidence to identify those involved in damaging vehicles and public property, intimidating people and disrupting public movement.

He said appropriate legal action would be taken against all offenders and warned that preventive detention provisions could also be invoked where warranted.

Assam, Meghalaya to Coordinate

On reports of Meghalaya-registered vehicles being obstructed in Assam following Wednesday’s incidents, Tynsong said the governments of both states were coordinating to ensure the unhindered movement of vehicles and passengers.

Assam Cabinet Minister Atul Bora and Tynsong will oversee coordination between the district administrations and police forces of the two states to prevent retaliatory actions that could inconvenience innocent travellers.

The government stressed that the actions of a few individuals should not affect relations between the people of Assam and Meghalaya, particularly those who regularly travel between the states for work, education, healthcare and trade.

High Court Seeks Report

Tynsong also said the Meghalaya High Court had directed the state government to submit a report regarding damage caused to a vehicle attached to the office of the High Court Registrar during the rally.

The government and police will compile the available evidence and investigation findings and submit the report within the stipulated period.

While reiterating that the government respects the right to peaceful protest, Tynsong said the right to protest does not permit anyone to damage property, assault people or disturb public order.

He appealed to residents of Meghalaya and Assam not to be misled by rumours circulating on social media and urged the public to cooperate with authorities in maintaining peace and preventing further escalation.