Conrad K. Sangma briefs Governor on improving law and order in Garo Hills

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma met with Governor C.H. Vijayashankar to discuss the improving law and order situation in Garo Hills, noting a significant reduction in violence, with only sporadic incidents reported. The internet ban was lifted following a review, but monitoring continues to prevent resurgence of unrest. Two pressure group leaders, Johny A. Marak and Balkarin Marak, were arrested concerning the violence linked to protests against a notification from the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council that prohibited non-tribals from contesting GHADC elections. This unrest, primarily between tribal Garo groups and non-tribal communities, particularly Bengali-speaking Muslims, escalated following the notification. The Meghalaya High Court quashed the notification and the elections scheduled for April 10 have been postponed indefinitely, extending the GHADC term to October 18, 2026, for peace restoration consultations. Sangma emphasized that law enforcement acts independently in arresting individuals based on evidence, distancing the government from the police’s operational decisions. The Confederation of Meghalaya Social Organisations (CoMSO) raised concerns about the arrests possibly escalating tensions and affecting public trust, calling for a cautious approach in managing the situation.