Shillong, March 11 : The Government of Meghalaya has ordered the suspension of mobile internet data services across all districts of the Garo Hills Division with immediate effect following reports of incidents that could disturb public peace and law and order.
According to a notification issued by the Home (Political) Department on Wednesday, the decision was taken after reports were received from Police Headquarters and Deputy Commissioners indicating several incidents across Garo Hills on March 11 in connection with the ongoing GHADC elections.
Authorities stated that incidents such as arson, assault on civilians, large crowd gatherings, and the spread of misinformation on social media have been reported in different parts of the region. Officials fear that such activities could create social disharmony and potentially escalate into a serious law and order situation.
The government also expressed concern that messaging platforms like WhatsApp and social media platforms including Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, and Instagram could be used to circulate videos, images, and messages capable of further inciting unrest.
In view of these developments, the Home (Political) Department has invoked provisions under Section 5(2) of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, read with the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules, 2017, to suspend mobile internet data services of all service providers.
The restriction will be enforced across all districts of the Garo Hills Division, including West Garo Hills, East Garo Hills, South Garo Hills, North Garo Hills, South West Garo Hills, and South Garo Hills, and will remain in effect until further orders.
The notification was issued by F. R. Kharkongor, IAS, Principal Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya, Home (Political) Department.
Officials warned that any violation of the order will attract legal action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and relevant provisions of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885.
