By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, May 28: Police have launched an investigation into the alleged trespassing and assault at the construction site of the second Ri-Kynjai project by the Centrepoint Group at Laitkynsew village, Sohra, on Thursday afternoon.
“The investigation into the incident has commenced,” East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem said.
According to the management of Centrepoint Group, the incident occurred around 2:45 pm when a group of approximately 15 youths, allegedly claiming to be from the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), entered the project site without permission and assaulted the workers.
The injured workers were identified as Manish Sharma, Papu Sharma, Raj Kumar Sharma, Mitlis Kumar, and Sorjo Bhumij. One worker, Raj Kumar Sharma, reportedly sustained grievous head injuries and was admitted to the hospital.
Condemning the incident, Centrepoint Group Managing Director Larsing Sawyan termed the act “violent and unlawful.”
He stated the attack was not merely an assault on a private business but an attack on the fundamental rights of citizens, including the right to security and livelihood.
Sawyan noted that the group, a homegrown hospitality brand, employs over 680 people and has consistently invested in the state’s tourism and infrastructure, particularly in rural areas. He warned that such incidents discourage investment and create fear among workers, potentially damaging Meghalaya’s long-term development. He urged authorities to take strict action against those responsible.
The Meghalaya Rural Tourism Forum (MRTF) also condemned the violence.
MRTF president Alan West Kharkongor said such acts of intimidation have no place in a democratic society and send a damaging message to investors and tourists.
“No organization or individual can take the law into their own hands. Differences or grievances must be addressed through lawful and democratic means,” Kharkongor said.
He called on the state government to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure the safety of workers, entrepreneurs, and project sites across the state.
