Tura, Mar 19: Authorities in Meghalaya’s West Garo Hills district have extended the curfew for an additional day amid ongoing tensions, while imposing prohibitory measures to prevent further violence.
District Magistrate and Deputy Commissioner Vibhor Agarwal announced that the curfew will remain in effect from 6 am on March 19 to 6 am on March 20. A 12-hour relaxation from 6 am to 6 pm on Thursday will permit normal activities, with schools, offices, banks, and other establishments allowed to operate. Movement will remain strictly prohibited during curfew hours.
The restrictions follow violence on March 17 linked to protests over a notification barring non-tribals from participating in a tribal council election. Clashes in Tura and nearby areas resulted in two deaths, property damage, and vandalism, prompting the initial curfew under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita.
Police have arrested several suspects and increased security in sensitive areas. Prohibitory orders under the same section and the Meghalaya Maintenance of Public Order (Autonomous District) Act, 1953, also ban public meetings, rallies, processions, and gatherings of five or more people without permission. The use of loudspeakers, weapons, and objects that could cause harm in public spaces is restricted.
Officials warned that violations could result in strict penal action, including prosecution and liability for damages. The measures aim to prevent further unrest and restore normalcy in the district.
