Shillong, March 20: Conrad K Sangma on March 19 informed Governor CH Vijayashankar that the law and order situation in the violence-hit Garo Hills region has improved significantly, with conditions gradually returning to normal after weeks of unrest.
The Chief Minister, accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Prestone Tynsong and senior officials, met the governor at Raj Bhavan to provide a detailed update on the developments. He stated that the situation has “eased,” with only isolated incidents being reported, and daily life resuming for residents. Authorities have also lifted the suspension on mobile internet services, though the administration continues to closely monitor the situation.
Sangma briefed the governor on the sequence of events that led to the violence, which was triggered by protests over the participation of non-tribals in the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council elections. He noted that he had stayed in Tura for nearly two weeks to oversee the situation directly and maintain coordination with officials on the ground.
The unrest began after a notification barred non-tribals from contesting the GHADC elections scheduled for April 10. Tensions escalated when former MLA Estamur Mominin was attacked while attempting to file his nomination. The incident led to clashes, leaving two people dead and causing damage to property due to arson. The violence spread to parts of East Garo Hills, including Williamnagar, prompting authorities to impose curfew and suspend internet services.
On the issue of police action, the Chief Minister emphasised that arrests would be carried out strictly based on evidence, underscoring the role of law enforcement agencies in maintaining order. In response to the unrest, the state government postponed the GHADC elections, removed the council chief, and extended the council’s term by six months as part of efforts to stabilise the region.
