Petrol Bomb Attacks Target Govt Offices in Meghalaya as Tensions Escalate

Incidents of arson and petrol bomb attacks on government properties were reported across Meghalaya on Friday, as tensions continued following violence during the Khasi Students’ Union’s black-flag bike rally earlier this week.

An office that previously housed the National People’s Party (NPP) at Lachumiere was targeted with a petrol bomb around 5 am. The device, however, did not explode. Police and forensic teams inspected the site, collected evidence and registered a case.

In West Khasi Hills, two government vehicles were gutted after being set ablaze at Nongstoin on Thursday night. Petrol bombs were also hurled at offices of the PWD Superintending Engineer and the SDO of Mawshynrut Civil Sub-Division, causing minor damage.

In Shillong, a petrol bomb thrown at the Nongmensong police outpost landed inside the premises and set a chair on fire. No injuries were reported. Similar incidents were reported in Ri-Bhoi and South West Khasi Hills, where government vehicles and offices were targeted.

The Centre has approved the deployment of five companies of central forces, comprising four CRPF and one RAF company, in Meghalaya until August 25 to assist the state police in maintaining law and order. Police have registered 15 FIRs in connection with Wednesday’s violence.

Meanwhile, the Byrnihat-Jorabat road remained blocked amid an Assam-Meghalaya taxi standoff. Authorities advised commuters, particularly those travelling for medical treatment, airport and railway connections, to use alternative routes.

At least 31 vehicles were damaged and several pedestrians were assaulted during Wednesday’s violence. Transport operators in Assam subsequently stopped Meghalaya-registered vehicles at Jorabat and Khanapara, leaving hundreds stranded.

Chief Ministers Conrad K Sangma and Himanta Biswa Sarma have agreed to work together to restore peace. Both states have initiated talks involving ministers to ease tensions and ensure the smooth movement of people and vehicles.

The Meghalaya government has appealed for peace and restraint, urging citizens to avoid actions that could further escalate the situation.