Assam youths stranded in Shillong are seeking assistance after travelling from Rupahihat in Nagaon district for medical treatment. The youths said they have remained inside their hotel because of concerns over safety amid continuing tension in the Meghalaya capital.
Their situation comes after violence during a Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) black-flag motorcycle rally in Shillong on August 19. The incident damaged vehicles and was followed by disruptions on roads linking Assam and Meghalaya. Authorities have since taken steps to contain the situation and help stranded travellers.
Assam youths stranded in Shillong seek safe passage
The youths from Rupahihat reportedly travelled to Shillong for medical purposes. According to their accounts, they have avoided leaving their hotel as they fear possible trouble outside.
They also alleged that vehicles bearing Assam registration numbers were vandalised in parts of Shillong. Videos shared by the youths on social media showed them appealing for help and updating their families about their situation. These accounts could not independently establish the full circumstances of their stay.
Their families have urged the Assam government to help arrange a safe return. The uncertainty has also raised concern among other people from Assam who are currently in Meghalaya.
Travel disruption deepens after Shillong violence
The unrest followed a KSU rally that turned violent on August 19. Meghalaya Police said 31 vehicles were damaged, while pedestrians were assaulted and public property was vandalised. Two government vehicles were also set on fire, according to police.
Several Assam-registered vehicles and tourists were reportedly among those affected. The incidents led to a retaliatory blockade by Assam-based taxi operators and commercial vehicle drivers at important entry points to Meghalaya.
As a result, movement between Guwahati and Shillong has faced disruption. On August 22, PTI reported that the blockade had entered its third day, with drivers extending restrictions to several additional routes. An inter-state ministerial meeting was also scheduled in Guwahati to seek a solution.
Assam youths stranded as helplines activated
The Assam government has activated dedicated helplines through Assam Police for people from the state stranded in Meghalaya or facing difficulties while travelling there. Families can provide details such as the stranded person’s name, contact number, vehicle registration number and current location.
Assam Police has said it is coordinating with the Meghalaya administration and police to provide assistance. The reported helpline numbers are WhatsApp 9181014888 and landline 03612381511.
The move is aimed at helping officials identify stranded people and coordinate their movement. Authorities have also urged people to remain calm and share verified information instead of relying on unconfirmed social media claims.
Security measures continue in Meghalaya
Security has been strengthened in Meghalaya following the violence. Five companies of central armed police forces were approved for deployment after the state government reported a deterioration in the law-and-order situation in East Khasi Hills district.
Meanwhile, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said he had spoken with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma about attacks involving Assam-registered vehicles and tourists. Both governments agreed to work together to restore normalcy, according to Sangma.
The Meghalaya government and Assam authorities are therefore facing pressure to restore road connectivity while preventing further escalation. The continuing disruption has affected ordinary passengers who depend on regular transport between the neighbouring states.
Assam youths stranded await return amid uncertainty
For the Assam youths stranded in Shillong, the immediate priority remains safety and a reliable route home. Their families are waiting for clearer travel conditions and assistance from the authorities.
The wider situation remains sensitive, with movement restrictions continuing and efforts under way to ease the standoff. Until normal traffic resumes, travellers from both states are likely to remain cautious.
Authorities have stressed restraint and coordination as they work to restore normal movement. For those already stranded, official assistance and verified updates remain important as the two states seek to bring the situation under control.