Meghalaya: Curfew extended in violence-hit West Garo Hills

Shillong: Curfew in Meghalaya’s violence-hit West Garo Hills district has been extended till 6 am on Sunday, officials said.

According to an order issued by District Magistrate Vibhor Aggarwal, it will be implemented across the district with rest from 9 am to 3 pm on Saturday for supply of essential commodities.

Meanwhile, officials said that the curfew imposed in the East Garo Hills region will continue until further notice.

In another order, District Magistrate RP Marak said that Williamnagar Main Bazar in East Garo Hills will be allowed to open from 6 am to 1 pm.

Officials said that residents were asked to stay indoors during the curfew, and movement was prohibited in the two districts except for rest hours.

They said law enforcement agencies, judges and police officers have been instructed to strictly enforce the order and take action against violators.
Violence broke out in parts of Western Garo Hills, including Chibinang and Tura, earlier this week during protests linked to the nomination process for the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) elections. Authorities said two people died in the violence and vandalism and arson were reported from various areas.

Considering the law and order situation, the Meghalaya government has postponed the GHADC elections scheduled to be held on April 10.