Durga Puja celebrations in Shillong, Meghalaya, have faced security concerns following a series of suspected petrol bomb and arson incidents. The latest incident occurred on October 20, when unidentified persons allegedly threw a petrol bomb into a government office on Keating Road. No injuries or property damage were reported in that incident. Earlier, similar incidents occurred in Mawbah and Laban, raising concerns about public safety during the festival. In response, the Meghalaya government has reviewed security arrangements around Durga Puja pandals and nearby areas. Police are investigating the incidents and working to identify those responsible.
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Key Facts
- Location: Shillong, East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya
- Latest incident: October 20, 2026
- Latest location: Directorate of Employment and Craftsmen Training, Keating Road
- Other affected areas: Mawbah and Laban
- Government response: Security review around Durga Puja pandals
- Casualties: No injuries reported in the incidents described
- Investigation: Shillong police are examining the incidents
Suspected Petrol Bomb Thrown at Government Office
The latest incident occurred at around 7 pm on Tuesday, October 20, at the Directorate of Employment and Craftsmen Training on Keating Road. The office houses the Meghalaya State Skill Development Society (MSSDS) and stands opposite Civil Hospital.
According to eyewitnesses, two unidentified persons arrived on a scooter without a number plate. One person allegedly ignited a petrol bomb and threw it through the office gate before both individuals fled.
Shopkeepers in the vicinity reportedly extinguished the fire. Police later reached the location and began investigating the incident.
Authorities have reported no injuries or property damage from this attack. However, the incident has added to concerns over security during the ongoing Durga Puja celebrations.
Earlier Incident Reported in Mawbah
The latest attack followed a suspected petrol bomb incident in Mawbah on the night of October 17.
The incident occurred at around 9:30 pm near Shiv Mandir, close to a momo stall. According to eyewitnesses, people heard a loud noise and then noticed a suspicious object near an abandoned scooter and the food stall.
Reports stated that the object did not explode, although a wire caught fire. The abandoned scooter suffered partial burning. No injuries were reported.
East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem said police were investigating the incident and checking whether the object was a petrol bomb.
The investigation aims to establish what happened and determine the nature of the suspected device.
Attempt to Set Fire to Puja Gate in Laban
Another incident occurred early on Monday morning in Laban. Unidentified persons allegedly attempted to set fire to the welcome gate of the Kench’s Trace Puja Committee.
This incident added to concerns among organisers and residents as devotees continued visiting pandals across Shillong.
Families have been attending prayers and visiting decorated venues to celebrate Durga Puja. Therefore, the reported incidents have increased pressure on authorities to maintain security throughout the festival.
Police have yet to establish whether the incidents in Keating Road, Mawbah and Laban share a connection. Investigators will need to examine the evidence before drawing conclusions.
Meghalaya Government Reviews Durga Puja Security
Following the incidents in Mawbah and Laban, the Meghalaya government reviewed security arrangements around Durga Puja venues.
Chief Secretary convened a meeting at the request of the Central Puja Committee (CPC), Meghalaya. The meeting focused on strengthening security around pandals and surrounding areas.
Furthermore, the latest incident on Keating Road has renewed concerns about the safety of government offices, businesses and festival visitors.
Authorities face the task of identifying those responsible while ensuring that devotees can celebrate without fear. Increased vigilance around crowded areas may also help police respond quickly to suspicious activity.
Why the Incidents Matter for Shillong and Meghalaya
Shillong is Meghalaya’s capital and a major centre for religious and cultural celebrations in the Northeast. Durga Puja attracts residents and visitors to pandals across the city.
Consequently, security incidents during the festival can affect public confidence and disrupt celebrations. Effective coordination between police, government departments and puja committees remains important for protecting residents and visitors.
Meanwhile, investigators must establish the facts behind each reported incident and determine whether the attacks are connected.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in Shillong on October 20?
Unidentified persons allegedly threw a suspected petrol bomb into a government office on Keating Road. No injuries or damage were reported.
Where did the earlier incidents occur?
Earlier incidents were reported near Shiv Mandir in Mawbah and at the welcome gate of the Kench’s Trace Puja Committee in Laban.
Has anyone been injured?
No injuries were reported in the incidents described.
What action has the Meghalaya government taken?
The government reviewed security arrangements around Durga Puja pandals following the earlier incidents.
Are the incidents connected?
Police are investigating the reports. Authorities have not confirmed whether the incidents share a connection.
Why has security become a concern during Durga Puja?
The suspected attacks have raised concerns about public safety as devotees continue visiting pandals across Shillong.
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