Shillong, March 19 Authorities in the West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya imposed an indefinite night curfew across the entire district on Thursday, citing incidents of violence and threats to public safety, officials said.
The order was issued by District Magistrate Vibhor Aggarwal under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, following a review of the prevailing law and order situation and inputs from law enforcement agencies, they said.
The night curfew will be enforced from 6 pm to 6 am until further notice, during which no person will be allowed to move outside their residence within the district, the order said.
According to the order, incidents of violence and disturbance of public peace have been reported in various parts of the district, posing a serious threat to human life, public safety, and property.
"In view of the prevailing situation and upon careful assessment of reports received from law enforcement agencies, I am satisfied that continuation of stringent preventive measures is necessary to restore normalcy and prevent further escalation of violence," the district magistrate said.
Officials warned that any violation will attract penal action under relevant Sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and other provisions of law.
The district has witnessed sporadic incidents of violence in recent days, including clashes, arson, and damage to property in Tura and adjoining areas following protests over the issue of barring non-tribals from participating in a tribal council election, prompting authorities to impose curfew and other restrictions earlier.
Mobile internet services were also temporarily suspended as a precautionary measure to curb the spread of rumors and prevent mobilization through social media, officials said.
The tenure of the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) was extended by the Governor to ensure administrative continuity in the region.