Net Services Resume in Garo Hills; Curfew Extended, Political Strain Lingers

With an observed improvement in law and order, the government of Meghalaya has lifted the suspension of mobile data and internet services in all five districts of the Garo Hills, a region previously affected by violence. The restrictions, which were enacted on March 11 for precautionary reasons following violent outbreaks, impacted West Garo Hills, East Garo Hills, South Garo Hills, North Garo Hills, and South West Garo Hills. The unrest led to the death of two individuals and notable disturbances, particularly in West Garo Hills, where incidents of clashes, vandalism, and property damage were reported. An official order from the Home (Political) Department confirmed the immediate revocation of the suspension.

Despite the lifting of internet restrictions, local authorities are proceeding with caution. The district administration of West Garo Hills has extended the curfew for an additional day to mitigate potential unrest, maintaining it from 6 AM on March 19 to 6 AM on March 20, alongside a 12-hour relaxation period from 6 AM to 6 PM. Prohibitory orders against public meetings, rallies, and unlawful assemblies remain in effect to ensure peace in sensitive areas.

In a related development, the Nangrimgimin A’chik Dol (NAD), a coalition of Garo organizations, has called for the immediate release of its leaders who were arrested during the recent violence in Tura. They specifically seek the release of Balkarin Ch. Marak and Johnny A. Marak, asserting that these individuals acted in the interests of indigenous communities rather than for selfish purposes. The NAD’s protests are reportedly linked to demands for constitutional safeguards provided under Article 244(2) of the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which aims to protect tribal identity, land rights, customs, and self-governance.

The organization has also expressed serious concerns regarding the transparency surrounding the situations of the arrested individuals, claiming that families have not been properly informed about their whereabouts. They label this lack of communication as distressing and advocate for family access, framing it as a matter of justice and humanitarian concern.