Indian Army and RAF conduct flag march in Shillong amid regional tensions

The Indian Army and Rapid Action Force (RAF) conducted a flag march in Shillong to tighten security following violence during a Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) rally on August 19. The unrest involved attacks on vehicles carrying tourists from Assam, resulting in vandalism and injuries, as well as damage to public property.

In response, the central government has approved the deployment of central armed forces to assist Meghalaya state police in maintaining law and order. Tensions have also manifested in protests by motor vehicle workers’ unions at Jorabat, where demonstrators have blocked Meghalaya-registered vehicles from entering Assam.

High-level officials from both Assam and Meghalaya met in Guwahati to discuss measures to prevent further escalation and ensure the smooth movement of people and vehicles between the states. Three senior KSU office-bearers have been arrested in connection with the Shillong violence.