Shillong, April 13: Former MLA of Phulbari constituency, Esmatur Mominin, has surrendered before the police at Nongpoh Police Station after remaining in hiding for several days following the outbreak of unrest in Garo Hills linked to his attempt to file nomination for the GHADC elections.
Despite strong opposition from sections of the Garo community against non-tribal candidates contesting the MDC elections, Mominin had gone to file his nomination at the office of the Deputy Commissioner, West Garo Hills, on March 9, 2026. During the incident, he was reportedly confronted and assaulted by protesting locals, but was later rescued by police personnel.
After returning to his residence, videos of him addressing his supporters began circulating. Within hours of the speech going viral, a major law and order situation erupted in Chibinang, which later spread to other parts of Garo Hills.
Several FIRs were reportedly filed against him in connection with the incident, following which he went into hiding. He has now surrendered before the Nongpoh police, and further investigation is underway.
