Central Forces Deployed in Meghalaya Amidst Shillong Protests

In response to violent protests in Shillong, the central government has deployed five companies of armed police forces to assist local authorities. The unrest, sparked by a 'Black Flag' rally organized by the Khasi Students’ Union, resulted in significant property damage and injuries. Key leaders of the KSU have been arrested, and investigations are underway to identify further suspects involved in the violence. The rally aimed to address various demands, including the implementation of safety regulations for residents and reforms in government recruitment processes. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and the government's efforts to restore order.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 20, 2026, 18:12 IST

Violent Protests Lead to Central Intervention

An alleged KSU member vandalises a car during Wednesday’s ‘Black Flag’ protest in Shillong. (Photo:@SubhoMazumder4/X)

Shillong, August 20: Following violent protests in Shillong that resulted in injuries and property damage, the central government has authorized the deployment of five companies of armed police forces in Meghalaya.

The Union Home Ministry has dispatched four companies from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and one from the Rapid Action Force (RAF) to assist local police in maintaining order until August 25, according to a senior official from the Home Department.

This decision came after the state Home (Police) Department reported a significant decline in law and order in Shillong.

The unrest began during a 'Black Flag' demonstration organized by the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) on Wednesday, leading to widespread vandalism and stone-throwing in areas such as Fire Brigade, Nongmensong, Polo, Barik, and Mawlai.

At least 31 vehicles, primarily government SUVs, were damaged, and one government vehicle was set ablaze. Reports indicate that several pedestrians were also attacked during the chaos.

Vivek Syiem, the Superintendent of Police for East Khasi Hills, confirmed the incidents of damage, including the vandalism of busts of Swami Vivekananda and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose at the Relief and Rehabilitation Colony.

Late Wednesday, police apprehended KSU president Raymond Kharjana, vice-president Pynkmenlang Sanmiet, and general secretary Reuben Najiar in connection with the unrest.

The three leaders face charges under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and were remanded to 14 days of judicial custody on Thursday.

Abhilash Barnawal, the Deputy Commissioner of East Khasi Hills, acknowledged potential operational shortcomings during the rapid escalation of violence, stating that the administration would evaluate its response and learn from the incident.

He noted that police deployed a stun grenade and tear gas after a petrol bomb was reportedly thrown at security forces, describing the response as appropriate.

Authorities are currently reviewing video footage and other evidence to identify individuals involved in the vandalism, arson, and assaults, with more arrests anticipated.

The KSU organized the black-flag rally to advocate for a five-point agenda, which includes the enforcement of the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act, regulations for migrant workers, reforms in government hiring processes, and addressing concerns related to recruitment at the North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS).