Shillong, May 9: The Government of Meghalaya has constituted a Commission of Inquiry headed by retired judge T. Vaiphei to investigate the incidents that triggered unrest and violence in the Garo Hills region following the filing of nomination papers for the elections to the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council on March 9.
According to an official notification issued by the state government, the Commission has been formed under Section 3 of the Commissions of Inquiry Act, 1952 in view of the violence, social unrest and the resulting loss of lives and property in the region.
The inquiry panel, chaired by Justice (Retd.) Vaiphei, has been entrusted with examining the circumstances that led to the March 9 incident in West Garo Hills and preparing a detailed fact-finding report on the acts or omissions of individuals and authorities concerned, including any alleged failure to prevent the violence.
The Commission will also investigate the root causes behind the unrest, review possible administrative lapses and recommend remedial measures, including institutional and administrative reforms aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.
In addition, the panel has been tasked with suggesting appropriate relief measures, including financial compensation for those who suffered loss of life or property as a direct result of the violence.
The Commission has been directed to submit its findings and recommendations to the Meghalaya government within six months from the date of issuance of the notification.
According to the notification, the proceedings of the Commission will be conducted in Tura unless otherwise decided by the panel. The government further stated that the Commission would exercise all powers available under the Commissions of Inquiry Act and may seek assistance from officials, experts and other agencies during the inquiry process.
The expenditure related to the functioning of the Commission will be borne by the Commissioner of Division, Garo Hills.
