Shillong, March 9 : The Government of Meghalaya has ordered the temporary suspension of mobile internet services in West Garo Hills district for 48 hours, citing concerns over potential disturbances to public peace and law and order in Tura.
According to a notification issued by the Home (Political) Department, reports from the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police of West Garo Hills indicated several incidents on March 9 in connection with the filing of nominations for the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) elections.
Authorities stated that incidents including assault on civilians, large gatherings, and the spread of misinformation on social media were reported in Tura, which could threaten public safety and disturb communal harmony.
The government also expressed concern that messaging platforms and social media sites such as WhatsApp, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, and Instagram could be used to circulate pictures, videos, and messages that might further aggravate the situation and lead to a breakdown of law and order.
To prevent misuse of digital platforms, the state government has prohibited mobile internet data services of all mobile service providers in the district for a period of 48 hours starting from 12:00 AM on March 10, 2026.
The order has been issued 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.
Officials warned that any violation of the order will be punishable under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and relevant provisions of the Indian Telegraph Act.
