SHILLONG : Meghalaya Police on Wednesday night arrested three senior leaders of the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) following incidents of vandalism and violence during the organisation’s bike rally in Shillong.
KSU President Raymond Kharjana, Vice President Pynkmenlang Sanmiet and General Secretary Reuben Najiar were taken into custody and brought to Sadar Police Station, a KSU leader confirmed.
According to police sources, the three leaders have been booked under multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, including sections relating to damage to public property, assault and violations of law.
The arrests came hours after the KSU leadership addressed the media and expressed regret over the violence that occurred during the rally. The leaders alleged that “miscreants” had infiltrated the agitation with the intention of sabotaging the organisation’s demands.
The KSU’s black-flag bike rally on Wednesday descended into violence at several locations across Shillong. Incidents reported during the rally included stone pelting, vandalism of 31 vehicles, including vehicles from outside Meghalaya, the burning of a government vehicle and assaults on pedestrians.
Violent incidents were reported from areas including Firebrigade, Nongmensong, Polo, Barik and Mawlai.
Following the arrests, Meghalaya Police also conducted a raid at the KSU office in Jaiaw. Tear gas was fired during the operation as police carried out the search.
The police action comes amid heightened tension in Shillong following the violence during the KSU rally. Further legal action is expected as police continue their investigation into the incidents.