The Meghalaya High Court annulled the notification from the Executive Committee of the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC), issued on February 17, which required candidates in the upcoming GHADC elections to provide a Scheduled Tribe certificate. This ruling allows non-tribal candidates to participate in the polls scheduled for April 10. Justice Hamarsan Thangkhiew stated that the amendment rules concerning this issue should have been sanctioned by the GHADC Executive Committee, approved by the Members of the District Council (MDCs), and assented by the Governor. The court highlighted that the notification was improperly issued without council approval. The ruling comes amid heightened tension in Garo Hills, sparked by protests from non-tribals against the initial requirement, which has unfortunately led to fatalities and injuries during related clashes with police.