Shillong: Tension flared along National Highway 6 near Mawryngkneng in East Khasi Hills when police resorted to tear gas and baton charges to disperse members of the Meghalaya Truck Owners and Drivers Association (MCTODA), who had blocked the highway in the early hours of November 5.
Several people were injured in the confrontation, while four protesters — including MCTODA president Mokslander Marngar — were taken into custody.
According to police officials, the situation turned chaotic after the blockade disrupted vehicular movement, prompting security forces to intervene.
“The protests became violent, affecting highway traffic and forcing us to act to restore order,” a senior officer said.
The truckers’ association has been on an indefinite strike since October 27, demanding that cement plants in Jaintia Hills pay the government-notified transportation rates.
The group alleges that companies have been underpaying truckers despite the state’s prescribed tariffs.
Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, who also oversees the Transport Department, clarified that the state-approved rates apply solely to transportation within Meghalaya.
“The government’s rates — Rs 11 per tonne per kilometre on blacktopped roads, Rs 12 on gravel roads, and Rs 14 on kuccha roads — are valid only inside Meghalaya and not for inter-state transport,” Dhar explained.
He added that the dispute was primarily between transporters and cement companies, though the government remained open to discussions with both parties.
Home Minister and Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong said district authorities in East Jaintia Hills had already held talks with the MCTODA and cement companies to resolve the issue.
He reiterated that the prescribed rates could not be enforced on operations extending into Assam.
As tensions spread, the All Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxi Association (AKMTTA) condemned the police action, accusing the authorities of using excessive force.
The group also threatened to disrupt the upcoming Cherry Blossom Festival if the government failed to address the truckers’ grievances.
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The protest has also drawn support from the Khun Hynñiewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM), which expressed solidarity with the truckers.
In response to the escalating unrest, East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner RM Kurbah invoked Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), prohibiting rallies, demonstrations, or public gatherings in the Mawryngkneng C&RD Block.
The order, which also bans carrying arms or weapons of any kind, will remain in force until further notice.
Authorities have warned that violators will face prosecution under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and other relevant laws, emphasizing that public peace and smooth traffic movement must be maintained.
