Curfew Relaxation in Garo Hills Amidst Election Unrest

In Meghalaya's Garo Hills, authorities temporarily lifted a curfew to allow residents to buy essential goods. The curfew was enacted after violent protests erupted due to opposition to non-Garo candidates participating in district council elections. Additional security has been deployed, and upcoming elections have been postponed.

The curfew imposed across Meghalaya's East and West Garo Hills districts saw brief relaxation on Thursday, aimed at providing locals with an opportunity to acquire essential supplies. In a climate of unrest following protests over district council elections, curfews were temporarily lifted in East Garo Hills for five hours and in West Garo Hills for two hours.

The imposition of curfews followed the eruption of violence in West Garo Hills, stemming from opposition to non-Garo communities participating in electoral processes for the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council. The unrest tragically resulted in casualties, with two individuals losing their lives when police dispersed crowds using force. Incidents of arson and property damage were reported, prompting the deployment of additional security forces, including Army columns.

Chief Minister Conrad Sangma conducted a visit to Tura, assessing security efforts and engaging with local residents. In response to the unrest and damage caused to the National People's Party office, Sangma condemned the violence and delayed upcoming elections. In a preemptive move, internet services were also suspended in parts of the region to curb misinformation and restore order.

(With inputs from agencies.)