By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Sep 12: Police apprehended Bajiedstar Kharsati (47) in Mawryngkneng on Friday after an intensive search operation, a day after he allegedly vandalised the window panes of a local church.
East Khasi Hills SP Vivek Syiem said police launched the operation after receiving reports of the incident.
“During inquiry, it was learnt that Kharsati had broken the window panes. Fearing assault from the public, he fled into a nearby jungle,” Syiem stated.
The accused was taken to Mawryngkneng CHC for medical examination and later referred to MIMHANS, where he was admitted as he appeared mentally unstable.
Interestingly, Kharsati had allegedly attempted an arson attack on the Presbyterian Church at Pomlahier, damaging chairs and part of the wooden floor on August 15. A case (Mawryngkneng P.S. Case No. 34(08)2025 U/S 326(g) BNS) was registered the next day following a written FIR lodged by church elders. Investigations confirmed that Friday’s act was his second recorded offence.
However, villagers claimed it was his fifth such attack. They alleged that Kharsati had previously attempted to set the church on fire twice and had smashed its windows on three occasions. They also disputed the claim of mental illness, insisting that he does not suffer from any disorder.
According to reports, Kharsati used a catapult to break the window panes and threatened to shoot anyone who tried to stop him. Although police were alerted promptly, witnesses said he brandished the weapon and prevented anyone from approaching.
Earlier, VPP MLA Heaving Stone Kharpran expressed disappointment over the delay in arrest, describing the incident as “deeply saddening” for church members. He said he would meet church leaders to discuss measures to restore peace, prevent further attacks, and possibly explore an understanding between the accused and church elders.
Mawryngkneng village sordar, Peter J Lawai, condemned the repeated attacks and criticised police inaction.
