Nongpoh, Aug 20: Amid escalating tensions over alleged attacks on Assam-registered vehicles and passengers here in Shillong yesterday, today saw retaliatory action against Meghalaya-registered cars trying to enter Assam.
Yesterday, during the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) bike rally, Assam-registered vehicles – both private and commercial taxis – were targetted with violence by the rallyists and several people were also injured.
Today, Assam-based commercial vehicle drivers and transport associations staged protests and blockades at entry points including Khanapara and Jorabat. There were also some reports of stoning against Meghalaya vehicles.
Meanwhile, there were reports of vandalism and assaults along the Guwahati-Shillong route, particularly around Khanapara and other transit points, reportedly involving KSU members and supporters.
Tourist drivers from Assam, along with members of the Bir Lachit Sena demanded compensation and an apology for vehicles damaged and people injured.
Later, the All-Khasi Meghalaya Tourist & Taxi Association (AKMTTA) moved to Lad Umroi, Umiam, and member of FKJGP North Khasi Hills District stopped Assam-registered vehicles from proceeding towards Shillong at Byrnihat.
AKMTTA president Ricaldinus Dohling and adviser John Nonglait said the blockade was a protest against the alleged harassment and obstruction faced by Meghalaya vehicles in Assam.
They maintained that the association would continue its protest if adequate protection was not provided to Meghalaya vehicles travelling through Assam.
The AKMTTA said its members were stopping Assam-registered public and private vehicles, but were not obstructing vehicles carrying essential food supplies or patients, in view of the difficulties being faced by the public.
Meanwhile, FKJGP North Khasi Hills District President Luistar Lyngdoh said the organisation had initially waited in the hope that a mutual understanding could be reached to resolve the situation, but that did not materialise.
Lyngdoh said the organisation deeply regretted Wednesday’s incidents in Shillong, but maintained that ordinary commuters should not be made to suffer because of them.
Meanwhile, in the interest of safety, the Highlander Brigade, a fan club of NorthEast United FC, decided that its members would not travel to Shillong for tonight’s Durand Cup 2026 semifinal where their team will play Mohun Bagan.
Against this backdrop, Assam activist Srinkhal Chaliha said, “We will write a new history of protest if the violence does not stop. If required, we will drive them (Meghalaya students) out of Assam.”
His remarks have raised concerns over the possibility of the unrest in Meghalaya spilling across the state border and affecting students, workers and residents from Meghalaya living in Assam.
