SHILLONG/GUWAHATI, AUG 22 (AGENCIES): The Assam and Meghalaya governments on Saturday agreed on joint measures to restore safe interstate movement and prevent further escalation following the August 19 violence in Shillong.
At a meeting in Guwahati, led by Meghalaya deputy chief minister Sniawbhalang Dhar and Assam minister Atul Bora, both states agreed to establish dedicated helplines, permanent district-level coordination committees and arrangements for the safe movement of tourists and vehicles along National Highways.
A coordination mechanism will link the IG, Special Branch, Assam, with the IG, Law and Order, Meghalaya. Dedicated helplines and an online support forum will assist stranded travellers. The WhatsApp helpline is 810147888 and the landline is 0361-2381511.
Permanent joint committees comprising officials from Nongpoh and Kamrup Metropolitan and police officers will address border issues. Another committee of transport authorities and tourist vehicle associations will oversee tourist transport.
The states also agreed to ensure secure transit for vehicles travelling between Assam and Meghalaya, including those from Barak Valley and travellers from Meghalaya.
Meghalaya expressed regret over the incident and reiterated responsibility for the safety of tourists and vehicles. It said KSU president, vice-president and general secretary had been arrested under the Meghalaya Maintenance of Public Order Act. Police have registered 15 FIRs, identified five masked suspects and formed an SIT to investigate and prosecute those involved.
