Apparently as a consequence of tensions in Jatalong village in a disputed border region between Meghalaya and Assam, three Khasi youth were arrested by Assam police today, accused of trying to burn down a bridge.
Last week, a clash between Khasis and Nepalis in Jatalong led to a rise in tensions, though authorities said that the issue at hand was personal and not communal.
Meetings to maintain the peace were held in the following days.
Today, village leaders under Raid Nongtung informed that three local youth had been arrested by Assam police from the Umpaklong area near the Umler River. They were identified as Barson Lawai, Standing Khriam and Dispar Mukhim, all residents of Sabuda.
Sources informed that the trio were taken to Ulukinchi for interrogation and were charged with trying to burn down the Umler Bridge.
This reporter contacted the Additional Deputy Commissioner, MB Tongper, who said that no official complaint had been received but a border magistrate has been ordered to conduct a spot inquiry and submit a report.
Village elders want the case to be investigated by Meghalaya police and have requested the district administration to take up the matter seriously with the authorities in Assam.
