Curfew has been relaxed in East Garo Hills district of Meghalaya for three hours from 8 am to 11 am on Thursday.
Curfew was imposed after violence erupted during protests over the nomination process for the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) elections. Deputy Commissioner RP Marak said the temporary relaxation was granted to enable people to purchase necessities while security forces continued to maintain strict vigil in sensitive areas. The state government has also suspended mobile internet services across five districts of the Garo Hills region as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of rumors and maintain law and order.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma had appealed to all sections of people to maintain peace. “At this critical juncture I appeal to all our citizens of Meghalaya especially Garo hills to maintain peace and law and order. Based on the prevailing situation Government has decided to postpone the elections to the GHADC. Further we will be calling all political parties and stakeholders to discuss the issues and try and work out a solutions taking everyone onboard,” the Chief Minister said.