Assam Unions Blockade Meghalaya After Attacks on Residents

The Nagarik Surakshya Samity and the Assam State Drivers' Union have initiated a comprehensive economic and traffic blockade of Meghalaya. The protests follow an August 19 motorcycle rally in Shillong organized by the Khasi Students' Union, which Meghalaya Police report resulted in 16 injuries and the burning or damage of at least 31 vehicles. Assamese tourists, taxi drivers, and residents were the primary targets of the violence.

Initially targeting main entry points at Jorabat and Khanapara in Guwahati, the blockade expanded to Rani, Boko, Hahim, and Lampi Road after the Meghalaya government suggested these as alternative routes. The North East Petroleum Mazdoor Union has further escalated the pressure by indefinitely halting the loading and unloading of products destined for Meghalaya.

Nagarik Surakshya Samity President Kailash Sharma linked the current tensions to the 1972 formation of Meghalaya, alleging that land in Guwahati and the Umiam hydropower project were transferred without proper consultation. He urged Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to take legal action to reclaim historically significant areas, including Khanapara.

To resolve the impasse, Assam Border Protection and Development Minister Atul Bora and Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister S Dhar are scheduled to meet in Guwahati for negotiations.