Taxi suspension follows attacks on vehicles and civilians during KSU rally
Shillong municipal and inter‑state commuters faced fresh disruption after the Meghalaya Taxi Drivers' Association suspended commercial taxi services between Shillong and Guwahati on Friday, officials said. The decision was taken in the wake of violence that erupted during a black‑flag motorcycle rally organised by the Khasi Students' Union (KSU) to press a five‑point charter of demands.
Police reports said the rally turned violent in several parts of the city, with attacks on vehicles, damage to public property and assaults on civilians. At least two government vehicles were set ablaze, and several other vehicles were damaged. Vehicles registered in Assam and tourists were among those allegedly targeted, according to the reports.
"Assam‑registered vehicles and tourists were among those allegedly targeted during the unrest," the reports said.
Retaliatory measures and border blockades
The disturbance prompted anger among transport operators on both sides of the interstate border. Assam‑based cab operators responded by blocking Meghalaya‑registered vehicles at Jorabat and Khanapara, disrupting traffic on the busy Guwahati–Shillong route and leaving passengers stranded near the border, according to officials.
- Suspension: Meghalaya taxi drivers have stopped Shillong–Guwahati services.
- Warning: The association warned services from Assam to Meghalaya could be halted if safety is not ensured.
- Border impact: Assam operators blocked Meghalaya vehicles at Jorabat and Khanapara, affecting commuters and tourists.
Incidents reported and human impact
Among the reported incidents was an alleged attack on an Assam family travelling to Shillong; their vehicle was vandalised and a child was injured by broken glass, officials said. These events have added to concerns among transport operators and tourism stakeholders about passenger safety.
| Reported facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Organising body | Khasi Students' Union (KSU) |
| Action | Black‑flag motorcycle rally that turned violent |
| Damage reported | Two government vehicles set on fire; other vehicles damaged |
| Transport response | Meghalaya taxi suspension; Assam drivers blocked Meghalaya vehicles at interstate points |
Authorities respond; chief ministers in contact
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma spoke with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma about the incidents, and both governments agreed to work together to restore peace, trust and normalcy, officials said. The Meghalaya government has also taken measures in response to the unrest, according to available reports.
Local tourism and hospitality organisations condemned the violence and warned that ongoing safety concerns could deter visitors to the hill state. The suspension of taxi services and the blockade along the interstate route are expected to affect commuters, tourists and businesses dependent on seamless connectivity between the two cities.
Police and district authorities have not released a full list of arrests or firings related to the unrest in the material available. The taxi drivers' association said services from Assam into Meghalaya could be stopped if adequate steps were not taken to ensure the safety of drivers and passengers.
Officials in Shillong urged commuters to seek alternate arrangements and follow updates from district administration and police for travel advisories. The situation remained fluid, with cross‑border tensions and transport disruptions likely to persist until authorities and stakeholders secure assurances on safety.
