Shillong, April 5: The annual Sngi Kyrsiew Ri observance organised by the Khasi Students’ Union in Laban on April 4 was briefly disrupted after a stone-pelting incident during a procession, raising concerns before authorities restored order.
According to eyewitnesses, unidentified individuals allegedly hurled stones from a nearby house at participants as they marched through the area. Some members of the procession reportedly retaliated, leading to a brief exchange that threatened to escalate the situation. Prompt intervention by district authorities and KSU leaders helped defuse tensions, with participants urged to maintain restraint. The rally resumed shortly after without further disturbance, and no injuries were reported.
Despite the incident, the observance of Sngi Kyrsiew Ri — also known as Khasi National Awakening Day — continued with strong participation. The procession began from the Bharat Scouts & Guides premises in Laban and concluded at Shillong Vidyalaya Secondary School in Lumshatsngi, with participants carrying portraits of prominent Khasi-Jaintia freedom fighters such as Tirot Sing Syiem, U Kiang Nangbah, Ka Phan Nonglait, and Wickliff Syiem.
Senior KSU leaders, including Lambokstarwell Marngar and Donald V Thabah, were present at the event, which drew participants from across the state. The area observed a near shutdown, with shops closed and vendors absent, while security personnel maintained a visible presence to ensure order.
Authorities confirmed that the situation remained under control and did not escalate into a major law-and-order issue. Observed annually, Sngi Kyrsiew Ri serves as a day to commemorate the cultural and political identity of the Khasi community.
