Authorities in Meghalaya have imposed a curfew in the West Garo Hills district following violent clashes that erupted during the nomination process for the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) elections. The situation escalated after protests turned aggressive, leading to police intervention and firing, in which two people reportedly lost their lives.
The unrest began when tensions flared between groups over the participation of non-tribal candidates in the council election process. Demonstrations quickly intensified outside government offices, with protesters demanding the withdrawal of certain nominations. As the situation deteriorated, security forces stepped in to disperse the crowd and restore order.
Following the violence, the district administration imposed a strict curfew across several parts of West Garo Hills to prevent further escalation. Security personnel, including additional police forces, have been deployed in sensitive areas, and authorities are conducting flag marches to maintain law and order.
The impact of the unrest has also extended to the education sector. The Meghalaya Board of School Education (MBOSE) announced the postponement of two Higher Secondary School Leaving Certificate (HSSLC) examinations scheduled in the affected district. The exams for Music and Anthropology, which were scheduled to be held this week, have been deferred. Officials stated that new examination dates will be announced once the situation stabilizes.
Students in other districts of Meghalaya, however, will continue to appear for their board examinations as scheduled, since the disturbances are largely confined to West Garo Hills.
Meanwhile, the state government has urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading misinformation. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have appealed to community leaders to help restore peace in the region.
Officials say the curfew and heightened security measures will remain in place until normalcy returns. Further updates regarding the GHADC election process and the postponed examinations are expected in the coming days.
