GUWAHATI: A man has been arrested by Meghalaya Police after a video showing a woman being assaulted in public went viral on social media, prompting authorities to register a suo motu case despite no formal complaint being lodged.
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The incident reportedly took place on the evening of June 28 near the Nongstoin Bypass on National Highway 44E in Meghalaya's West Khasi Hills district. The 1-minute 24-second video, which was widely circulated on Instagram and other social media platforms, shows a woman in distress before she is allegedly assaulted during a public confrontation.
Police said they took immediate cognisance of the viral footage and launched an investigation. The victim and the alleged assailant were identified, leading to the arrest of one accused. Officials said the investigation is underway to determine the sequence of events and identify any other persons involved.
West Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Herbert Kharkongor said preliminary investigation suggests the incident stemmed from a domestic or relationship-related dispute. According to police, the woman was spending time with friends when she encountered her estranged husband, who allegedly chased and assaulted her.
Following the circulation of the video, police questioned several people present at the scene, who are now being treated as key witnesses in the case.
The Meghalaya State Commission for Women has also taken cognisance of the incident and is monitoring the investigation in coordination with the West Khasi Hills Police. The Commission has called for a prompt and comprehensive probe into the matter.
Police have appealed to the public to refrain from sharing unverified content related to the case and to allow the investigation to proceed unhindered.