Protest Turns Violent in Meghalaya's Capital

SHILLONG: A large section of people had been complaining over the lack of jobs in the state of Meghalaya. A protest rally regarding the same was organised in the capital city of Shillong on Friday which later turned violent.

The rally was organised by the Federation of Khasi Jaintia and Garo People (FKJGP). Resentment over the lack of jobs avenues in the state brought hundreds of supporters to the streets of Friday. It was also supported by the Khasi Students' Union (KSU), the Ri Bhoi Youth Front (RBYF) and the Hynñiewtrep National Youth Front (HNYF). And when the rally passed through the narrow streets of Shillong, the city came to a standstill.

The youth marched from Motphran to the Fire Brigade Ground (Madan Iewrynghep) of Shillong as part of this rally. They shouted slogans and raised banners protesting "no positive steps have been initiated by the government to increase employment for the youths."

The participants of the rally demanded that the Conrad-led government come up with a policy to safeguard the future of Meghalaya.

The protest turned violent when police vehicles were vandalized and violence erupted and protesters attacked bystanders. Although the FKHJGP leaders tried to calm the crowds, a non-tribal tempo diver was among the injured. A police vehicle and several motorcycles were damaged.

The protestors then gathered at Madan Lewrynghep and held a meeting to discuss the problems of the people of Meghalaya. Topics included employment, research and basic amenities.

The lack of proper employment opportunities in the state was one of the main causes of the rampant substance abuse and other anti-social activities across the state mentioned by one of the leaders.

According to a report, the leader of Federation of Khasi Jaintia and Garo People also apologised to the media representatives after two journalists were injured during today's protest.

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