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Assam has issued helpline numbers for people from the state who may be stranded in Meghalaya following violence in Shillong. Authorities are coordinating with Meghalaya Police to help affected travellers and vehicles move safely.
The Assam government on Friday (Aug 22) issued helpline numbers to help people from the state who may be stranded in Meghalaya or facing difficulties travelling after violence broke out in Shillong's Khanapara area during a protest rally on August 19.
The violence occurred during a black flag bike rally organised by the Khasi Students' Union (KSU). Several vehicles, including some registered in Assam, were damaged during the clashes.
The incident was followed by protests by drivers of Assam-registered vehicles in the Khanapara area of Guwahati on Thursday.
Assam Police has asked family members, relatives, and others who have information about people or vehicles stranded in Meghalaya to contact the authorities through the helpline numbers. The police said the information received would be shared with the relevant authorities in Meghalaya, including the local administration and police, to coordinate assistance and facilitate movement.
The helpline numbers issued are:
WhatsApp: 9181014888
Landline: 03612381511
The Assam government and Assam Police said they are maintaining close coordination with Meghalaya authorities and will provide all possible assistance to those in need.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had on Thursday expressed concern over the incidents in Shillong and conveyed the matter to Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma.
Sarma said Assam Border Protection Minister Atul Bora had been asked to coordinate with Meghalaya authorities to help restore peace and normalcy.
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Meghalaya Police has arrested three senior leaders of the Khasi Students' Union in connection with the violence.
KSU leaders had earlier claimed that "negative elements" had entered the rally with the intention of diverting the agitation.
The black flag bike rally was part of the student body's continuing protest over a five-point list of demands. Among them are the implementation of the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act and changes to recruitment through the Meghalaya Public Service Commission.