The tourist taxi dispute escalated on Thursday when protestors at Jorabat blocked the vehicle of former Education Minister and NPP legislator Rakkam A Sangma, forcing him to rely on Assam police to continue his journey to Garo Hills. A large crowd from Assam shouted slogans demanding that he return to Meghalaya, with protestors clearly urging his vehicle to turn back. Rakkam shared a video of the confrontation and confirmed he barely managed to get past the blockade with police assistance.
The incident occurred amid an ongoing protest by the All Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxi Association (AKMTTA), which is demanding a ban on Assam tourist taxis operating in Meghalaya’s popular tourist destinations. This hardline stance has fuelled resentment on both sides of the border, escalating tensions. In response, Rakkam called for calm and dialogue, emphasising the need for both associations to find an amicable solution to avoid harm to people on both sides.
Meanwhile, the Meghalaya government continues to follow its usual approach, directing AKMTTA to negotiate with a high-level committee led by the Chief Secretary, showing reluctance to take stronger action despite the growing conflict.