Shillong, March 13 (NationPress) In Meghalaya, the West Garo Hills district administration has announced an extension of the curfew in Tura and the surrounding areas. However, officials have granted a six-hour relaxation on March 14 to enable residents to buy essential goods and address urgent needs.

As per the official directive from West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate Vibhor Aggarwal, the curfew, enforced under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), will remain in effect from 6 a.m. on March 14 until 6 a.m. on March 15, unless earlier lifted based on the prevailing law and order situation.

The administration has specified that there will be a temporary easing of restrictions from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on March 14.

During this time, residents will have the opportunity to leave their homes to obtain essential supplies, access necessary services, and fulfill other critical activities.

Officials indicated that the curfew was initially enforced due to reports of violence and disruptions to public order in various parts of the district.

The authorities highlighted that the prevailing situation constituted a significant threat to human life, public safety, and property, which necessitated the implementation of stringent preventive measures.

The extension of the curfew is intended to maintain stability and avert any further escalation of tensions, while allowing security forces adequate time to restore normalcy in the affected areas.

During curfew hours, movement outside residences will be strictly prohibited, except during the designated relaxation period.

Law enforcement agencies and executive magistrates have been tasked with ensuring that the restrictions are enforced rigorously throughout the district.

The administration has also warned that any violations of the curfew will incur legal consequences under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and other applicable laws.

Notably, unrest began earlier this week during demonstrations against the involvement of non-tribals in the forthcoming elections for the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC).

Subsequently, protests escalated into violence in certain areas, with reports of vandalism and arson by suspected miscreants.

On Thursday, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma visited several impacted regions, instructing officials to promptly deliver food aid to residents affected by the turmoil.

During his visit, Sangma engaged with local citizens and assessed the situation in neighborhoods that experienced acts of vandalism and arson.

He also directed the district administration to guarantee that essential supplies reach communities suffering from shortages due to the unrest.

The state government has postponed the upcoming district council elections in the Garo Hills district as a result of the violence.

CM Sangma stated, “In light of the current situation, the Government has opted to cancel or postpone the GHADC elections. We will convene with all political parties and stakeholders to discuss the issues and strive for solutions that include all voices.”