Assam-Meghalaya cab operators agree truce till September 10

Cab operators from Assam and Meghalaya have agreed to a temporary truce, resuming cross-border vehicle movement until September 10. The agreement follows a violent protest in Shillong on August 19 by the Khasi Students' Union (KSU) that targeted Assam-registered vehicles, prompting a three-day blockade by Assam cab operators at Jorabat. Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar said the state regretted the incident and assured strong action, including arrests of KSU leaders under the Meghalaya Maintenance of Public Order Act and constitution of a Special Investigation Team (SIT).

However, despite government-level assurances, timesnownews.com reports that Assam-registered vehicles were still being stopped and turned back at Umiam-Barapani on Sunday, even as Assam operators allowed Meghalaya cabs to enter. hindustantimes.com notes that Assam minister Atul Bora met 14 transport associations, who expressed safety concerns. The two states have agreed to form a joint committee of cab representatives. A dedicated helpline for stranded passengers has been launched. The Meghalaya government has said it will compensate losses from the violence and that over 3,770 Assam-registered vehicles have been safely escorted back.

Security has been tightened in Shillong, and the district administration has denied permission for KSU's proposed August 24 sit-in. A joint meeting between transport officials and taxi associations from both states must be held by September 10 to find a permanent solution. Assam cab operators said they may resume protest if their safety concerns are not addressed by then.