SHILLONG: The Meghalaya Tourism Department has advised tourists and visitors in Shillong to remain vigilant and follow official instructions amid the prevailing law and order situation in the city.
The department said it was monitoring developments across Shillong and keeping track of incidents that could affect tourists. Visitors were urged to exercise caution, follow official advisories and seek assistance whenever required.
Tourists requiring information or assistance can contact the department’s toll-free helpline at 1800-599-2026. The department said the safety of visitors remained its top priority and that it would continue monitoring the situation.
The advisory came a day after violence and vandalism were reported during a Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) black-flag bike rally in Shillong. The incidents led to the arrest of three senior KSU leaders, including president Raymond Kharjana, vice-president Pynkmenlang Sanmiet and general secretary Reuben Najiar.
Police sources said the three were booked under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita in connection with the violence. At least 31 vehicles were reportedly damaged and several people were injured in incidents of stone-pelting, assault and vandalism across parts of Shillong. A government vehicle was also set on fire, while vehicles bearing registration numbers from outside Meghalaya were among those targeted.
The rally was organised over the KSU’s five-point charter of demands submitted to Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma earlier this month. The demands included implementation of the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act and an Inner Line Permit system, reforms in government recruitment and action over recruitment-related issues at NEIGRIHMS.
The KSU expressed regret over the violence while alleging that miscreants had joined the rally to damage property and discredit the organisation. Police said the incidents violated the conditions under which permission for the rally had been granted and warned of strict action against those responsible.
Police also raided the KSU office in Jaiaw late Wednesday night, with tear gas reportedly used during the operation.
