Shillong, Aug 3: Two masked men hurled a petrol bomb at the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) office in Lumpyngad on Monday, causing only wall discoloration. No injuries were reported, police said.
The attack comes days after the board held a controversial public hearing for Shree Cement in East Jaintia Hills.
East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem said the incident occurred around 12:10 pm. The petrol bomb struck the outer wall and the miscreants fled immediately.
Police and the Crime Scene Unit rushed to the spot.
A case has been registered at Laitumkhrah Police Station under sections 324(3)(6)/326(g)/3(5) BNS. Investigation is on.
CCTV footage shows four persons arriving on two scooters, but only two entered the premises with faces concealed, making identification difficult. The bomb was allegedly thrown into a room occupied by a senior scientific assistant and narrowly missed him.
MSPCB Member Secretary George Hagi Chyrmang said he was away for an inspection in Byrnihat and returned after being alerted by staff. He said it was too early to link the attack to the recent public hearing.
Tight security has been deployed at MSPCB.
East Khasi Hills DC Abhilash Baranwal said the district administration has taken serious note. “Any individual/group found involved, directly or indirectly, will face stringent legal action. Such incidents undermine public safety and will be dealt with swiftly,” he said.
The DC urged people to remain calm and avoid rumours, and asked anyone with information or video footage to contact the SP office. Informant details will be kept confidential.
