Garo Hills Situation Eases as Internet Services Restored After Weeks of Unrest: Meghalaya CM Briefs Governor

Shillong: The law and order situation in Meghalaya’s Garo Hills region has significantly improved, with mobile internet services restored across the five districts following violent protests linked to the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) elections. Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma personally briefed Governor CH Vijayashankar at Raj Bhavan on March 19, providing a detailed update on the developments.
The unrest erupted on March 9, triggered by protests against the participation of non-tribals in the GHADC polls scheduled for April 10. Tensions escalated after a GHADC notification barred non-tribals from contesting, leading to an attack on non-tribal candidate Estamur Momin (a former MLA) during nomination filing. This sparked clashes, vandalism, arson, and property damage, spreading to parts of East Garo Hills including Williamnagar, with Tura remaining the epicenter.
The violence claimed two lives and caused widespread damage to properties. In response, authorities imposed curfew in affected areas and suspended mobile internet services in West Garo Hills, East Garo Hills, South Garo Hills, North Garo Hills, and South West Garo Hills starting March 11 to curb misinformation and prevent further escalation.
CM Sangma camped in Tura for nearly two weeks to monitor the situation closely. The state government took decisive steps, including postponing the GHADC elections, removing the council chief executive member, and extending the council’s term by six months to restore calm and ensure a fair environment.
Addressing the Governor, accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong (also Home Minister) and senior officials, Sangma stated: “The situation has eased, people are now moving forward with their daily lives. After reviewing the situation, we have also lifted the internet suspension. However, we are closely monitoring the developments and remain alert.”
He added that arrests would be made strictly based on evidence, leaving it to law enforcement agencies to act accordingly. Sangma emphasized the importance of in-person briefing despite regular phone updates, highlighting the need for transparency on the sequence of events.
With only sporadic minor incidents now reported and people resuming normal activities, the restoration of internet connectivity has brought relief to residents, businesses, students, and institutions severely impacted by the shutdown.
The Meghalaya government continues to prioritize peace, urging all stakeholders to maintain calm while security forces stay vigilant in the region.
Tags: Garo Hills Unrest, Meghalaya Violence, Conrad Sangma, Internet Restored Garo Hills, GHADC Elections Postponed, Governor Briefing Meghalaya, West Garo Hills Clashes, Tribal Non-Tribal Issue, Meghalaya Law and Order, Northeast India News
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