HC steps in after CRPF deployed in tense Shillong

The Meghalaya High Court intervened in the tense situation in Shillong following the deployment of four CRPF companies and one RAF company in the state until August 25. The court mandated the state government to restore peace promptly and submit a detailed action report by August 24, just prior to the court's own hearing on the matter.

Protesters engaged in violent acts, damaging vehicles, including those registered in Assam, and defacing a statue of Swami Vivekananda. In response to the escalating violence, the Union Home Ministry authorized the deployment of central forces, a move met with resistance from the protesters. Three KSU leaders were arrested and remanded for 14 days on Thursday, facing charges under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, including damage to public property, assault, and other offenses.

Among those arrested are KSU President Raymond Kharjana, Vice-President Pynkmenlang Sanmiet, and General Secretary Reuben Najiar. Protesters claimed that 31 vehicles were vandalized, individuals were physically assaulted without provocation, and a bus carrying children was also affected during the demonstration. The unrest was described as regrettable by East Khasi Hills SP Vivek Syiem, who noted that despite permission being granted and an undertaking provided, the peaceful environment of the city was disrupted.

East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal reported that approximately 200 security personnel were deployed along the rally route, and a petrol bomb was allegedly thrown at security personnel, leading to the use of tear gas and a stun grenade. Former KSU President Lambokstarwell Marngar stated that the arrests would not deter the union's agitation.

The KSU's five-point agenda includes addressing the July 31 public hearing for Shree Cement in East Jaiñtia Hills, enforcing the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act, 2016 until an Inner Line Permit is introduced, establishing facilitation centers at all 18 entry points in Khasi and Jaiñtia Hills, implementing the amended Migrant Workmen Act, 2020, and improving recruitment practices.

The East Khasi Hills district administration has invoked the Meghalaya Maintenance of Public Order (MMPO) Act to pursue compensation from the protesters for damage to public and private property. Additionally, the administration has withdrawn permission for the KSU's planned agitation on Friday, while the police have filed a separate FIR concerning a petrol bomb allegedly thrown at security personnel during a raid on the KSU office in Jaiaw.