Shillong, Aug 23: Amid reports of tourists cancelling their trips after the August 19 violence, East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal on Sunday asserted that Shillong is safe and welcomed tourists with open arms.
He said the administration is maintaining heavy security deployment across the city and patrolling will continue until citizens feel safe.
“You see a considerably larger presence of security across the city. We will continue that unless and until the citizens of Shillong feel safe and secure,” Baranwal said.
Following the violence that accompanied a Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) rally in the city last week the Centre approved a request for more central paramilitary forces in Shillong to restore order and public confidence.
Appealing to visitors not to cancel their plans, the DC said, “I have received multiple messages from across the country saying don’t go to Shillong. My only message is please come to Shillong, it is entirely safe. Don’t judge a city because of one isolated incident.”
Several government vehicles were targetted in the August 19 violence but so were private ones bearing Assam registration plates. Several non-tribals were also gravely assaulted during the violence as the rally made its way through Shillong, with the local police unable to stop it.
“Shillong is an important tourist destination across the country and globe. The people of East Khasi Hills welcome tourists with open arms. We want them here,” he added.
The DC assured that district administration and police are committed to ensure the safety of tourists and a dedicated Tourism Department helpline has been activated for assistance.
