String of petrol bomb attacks shake Meghalaya, 4 arson incidents reported in 24 hours

Shillong (Meghalaya) [India], May 1 : A string of petrol bomb attacks has shaken the peaceful hills of Meghalaya, leaving residents uneasy and officials scrambling to find answers.
According to Deputy Commissioner of Eastern Khasi Hills SC Sadhu, "Within the last 24 hours, there have been 4 arson incidents in two districts in Meghalaya."
In less than a month, the state has witnessed seven such attacks, with two reported just today, igniting fears of escalating violence and raising questions about law enforcement's effectiveness.
The official said that on April 30, two vehicles were set on fire in the Western Jantia Hills, after that on April 1, anti-social elements carried out petrol bomb attacks at three places in the city in Eastern Khasi Hills.

The recent three attacks first took place at the Rynjah police station in the city, the second at the office of Meghalaya Government Construction Corporation Limited located in the Kenches Tress area and the third at the Thana Road in Sadar police station.

Even though there was no big loss due to the petrol bomb attack at these three places, the incidents raised questions about the law and order in the city.

The magnitude of the attacks has escalated, with even high-profile figures coming under threat. Major General (retd) Rajesh Kumar Jha, currently serving as NEEPCO director, narrowly escaped harm when his escort vehicle was targeted on April 24.
More brazen still, on April 26, the residence of Meghalaya's Deputy Chief Minister, Sniawbhalang Dhar, was attacked, raising concerns about the security of the state's leadership.
Despite the gravity of these incidents, law enforcement has yet to make any arrests, casting a shadow over the efficacy of the government's response.
The Deputy Commissioner has said that given the recent incidents, instructions have been issued to arrange special security of all government offices and assets.
Notably, a petrol bomb was hurled at the residence of Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister, Sniawbhalang Dhar, located in Nongmynsong, by unknown miscreants on Thursday evening.
Last week, bike-borne miscreants hurled a petrol bomb targeting an escort vehicle of the NEEPCO Director.
In response to the escalating violence, the Deputy Commissioner of Eastern Khasi Hills has ordered heightened security measures for all government offices and assets.
These measures aim to prevent further attacks and restore public confidence in the state's ability to maintain peace and security.