Tura, March 17: The District Administration of West Garo Hills has imposed restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, to maintain law and order amid the prevailing situation in the district. The order was issued by District Magistrate and Deputy Commissioner Vibhor Agarwal, IAS, following reports from law-enforcement agencies regarding possible disturbances to public peace.
According to the order, intelligence inputs suggested that certain individuals, organizations and groups may attempt to organize processions, demonstrations, public meetings or assemblies which could disrupt normal life, obstruct public movement and potentially cause damage to public or private property. In view of this, the administration has taken preventive measures to avoid any untoward incidents.
Under the restrictions, no public meetings, rallies, demonstrations or gatherings can be organized without prior written permission from the district administration. The order also prohibits assemblies of five or more persons intended to conduct protests or activities that may disturb public order.
Additionally, the use of loudspeakers, megaphones, amplifiers and public address systems in public places has been banned without official permission. The administration has also barred organizations and individuals from conducting training camps, drills or parades, with or without arms, without prior approval.
The order further prohibits carrying weapons, sticks, rods, stones or any objects capable of causing injury or damageduring gatherings or processions. Any violation of the order may attract strict legal action under the Meghalaya Maintenance of Public Order (Autonomous District) Act, 1953 and the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, including criminal prosecution and liability for compensation for damages.
Police officials, Executive Magistrates and other law-enforcement authorities have been directed to ensure strict enforcement of the order across the district. However, the restrictions do not apply to government officials on duty, security forces, emergency services and persons authorized by the district administration.
Accordingly, the curfew shall remain in force from 6:00 A.M. of March 18, 2026 until 6:00 A.M. of March 19, 2026, unless withdrawn earlier. During the curfew period, no person shall move outside their residence within the limits of West Garo Hills District.
However, the administration has allowed relaxation from 6:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. on March 18, 2026, across the entire district to facilitate public movement and allow educational institutions, offices, banks and other establishments to function normally.
