Shillong: Ri-Bhoi Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Saini outlawed all unauthorized vehicle stops and blockades across the district. The order took effect August 22 in Nongpoh. It lasts for 60 days. Saini issued the directive under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita to stop traffic disruptions between Assam and Meghalaya.
While Assam-based groups ended their recent agitation, authorities fear local entities like the All Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxi Association might stage retaliatory strikes. The ban targets chakka jams, sit-ins, and human chains. It also prevents protesters from placing tyres, boulders, or other barriers on NH-06, state highways, and bypasses.
The order forbids forcibly offloading passengers, threatening drivers, or demanding illegal fees. Gatherings of five or more people are banned at toll plazas and transit points if the intent is to picket or block traffic. Officials also restricted inflammatory media, stating: "Provocative audio or video messages, press releases or social media posts intended to incite transport unions or the public to enforce fresh blockades or retaliatory action" are prohibited.
Police will punish violators under the BNS, 2023, and Section 8B of the National Highways Act, 1956. This sweeping measure keeps entry points and check-gates clear for commercial and private transport.
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