Shillong, August 20: A Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) black-flag bike rally in Shillong turned violent on Wednesday, with clashes, assaults and vandalism reported at several points along the route, triggering panic among motorists and pedestrians.
Masked individuals were reportedly seen targeting passing vehicles, with several people allegedly assaulted and injured. Multiple vehicles were damaged, while some were reportedly set on fire as the situation escalated. Vehicles bearing Assam registration plates and some government vehicles were among those allegedly targeted.
The incidents raised concerns over the safety of motorists, passengers and transport workers travelling between Assam and Meghalaya. Some individuals involved in the violence were reportedly heard raising pro-KSU slogans, though their identities and affiliations have not been independently established.
The Seven Star Tourist Cab Operators’ Union and other motor vehicle workers’ unions condemned the incidents, expressing concern over attacks on drivers, passengers and vehicles along the Assam-Meghalaya route.
The circumstances leading to the violence and the identities of those responsible remained unclear. Authorities were assessing the situation and investigating the incidents.
