Petrol Bomb Attack on Meghalaya Pollution Control Office Sparks Investigation

A petrol bomb attack on the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board office in Shillong has led to a police investigation. The incident occurred while staff were present, but fortunately, no injuries were reported. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage and have launched a manhunt for the suspects. The motive behind the attack remains unclear, although it follows recent protests against a proposed limestone mining project in the region. Local residents have raised concerns about the environmental impact of the project, which has faced significant opposition. The police have confirmed that legal proceedings are underway based on a formal complaint from the board.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 3, 2026, 18:06 IST

Incident Overview

The attack took place while staff members were present inside the office premises (Photo: AT)

Shillong, Aug 3: Authorities have initiated a search operation following a petrol bomb attack on the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB) office in Shillong on Monday.

As reported by law enforcement, the incident occurred while employees were inside the building.

According to police statements, the attack happened around 12:15 PM when two masked individuals arrived on a scooter, entered the office grounds, and threw two petrol bombs before escaping.

Investigators are currently reviewing CCTV footage from the vicinity and have launched a manhunt to locate the suspects.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported as a result of the attack. The motive remains unclear, and efforts are ongoing to identify the perpetrators.

A case has been filed at the Laitumkhrah police station, and an investigation is in progress.

Shillong City Superintendent of Police, Dangsan Khyriem, confirmed the incident, stating that legal actions have commenced following a complaint from the board.

"Two petrol bombs were thrown. A case will be registered based on the FIR," Khyriem noted.

When questioned about a possible connection to recent protests regarding a proposed limestone mining project in East Jaintia Hills, Khyriem advised against jumping to conclusions.

"It's too early to make any assumptions," he remarked.

An official from MSPCB indicated that a formal complaint had already been filed with the police.

"We have submitted an FIR. The police and forensic team have visited the site to gather evidence," the official stated.

This attack follows a public hearing conducted by MSPCB regarding a controversial limestone mining project supported by Shree Cement in Lum Syrman, East Jaintia Hills, which has faced significant local opposition.

Residents, farmers, and civil society groups have expressed concerns about the project's potential environmental and livelihood repercussions.

The controversy began on May 22, when protests led to the cancellation of a public hearing for environmental clearance for a proposed 217-hectare limestone mine at Daistong village, East Jaintia Hills.