Meghalaya: Fourth KSU Leader Arrested Over August 19 Rally Violence

Meghalaya Police on Monday arrested a fourth leader of the Khasi Students’ Union ( KSU ) in connection with violence reported during the organisation’s black-flag bike rally on August 19. Jeremiah Pohthmi, the KSU’s Assistant Organising Secretary, was arrested in the morning and later produced before a court. He has reportedly been remanded to judicial custody. Police said Pohthmi is among five masked persons identified so far for their alleged involvement in incidents of arson and assault during the violence, including attacks on vehicles bearing Assam registration numbers. Presenting a suo motu statement in the Meghalaya Assembly, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said five masked individuals had been identified in connection with the August 19 violence, particularly the attacks on Assam-registered vehicles. “Five masked persons have so far been identified as being involved in the August 19 incident, particularly in the attacks on Assam-registered vehicles. One has already been arrested,” the Chief Minister said. On the progress of the investigation, Sangma said he did not have the latest details at the time but would review the matter later. He said police action had already been initiated against those identified, and further steps would continue to ensure that all those responsible for triggering the violence were brought to justice. The latest arrest comes after three other senior KSU leaders were taken into custody earlier in connection with the same case. Those arrested earlier include KSU president Raymond Kharjana, vice president Pynkmenlang Sanmiet, and general secretary Reuben Najiar. Also Read: Assam-Meghalaya Tension: Tourist Taxi Services Resume After Temporary Blockade Lift