meghalaya-defers-garo-hills-council-polls-after-deadly-clashes

The Meghalaya government on Wednesday decided to postpone the elections to the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC), which were scheduled for 10 April, following recent violence in the region that left two people dead.

 

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said the decision was taken after reviewing the prevailing law and order situation in Garo Hills and the difficulties being faced by residents in the aftermath of the clashes.

 

“Dear friends, looking at the current situation in Garo Hills and understanding the difficulties people are facing at the moment, the Government of Meghalaya has decided to postpone GHADC elections,” the chief minister said in a video message.

 

The announcement came a day after two persons were killed in police firing during clashes between tribal and non-tribal groups in the Chibinang area of West Garo Hills. The violence broke out during the nomination process for the GHADC elections, triggering tensions across the district.

 

Officials said the situation in West Garo Hills remained calm but tense on Wednesday as authorities stepped up security measures to prevent further disturbances.

Also read: GHADC polls: 24-hr curfew imposed in Meghalaya’s west Garo Hills

The district administration has extended the curfew in the area until midnight of 13 March. Mobile internet services also continue to remain suspended as a precautionary measure to curb the spread of rumours and maintain public order.

 

According to police, the clashes erupted when rival groups confronted each other during the filing of nominations for the council polls. The situation escalated quickly, prompting security personnel to intervene.

 

Superintendent of Police Abraham T Sangma said the incident occurred during the nomination process for the local council elections and police were forced to open fire as the situation turned violent.

 

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, while additional security personnel have been deployed across sensitive areas in the district.

 

The government is expected to announce a fresh schedule for the GHADC elections once the situation returns to normal and conditions are deemed suitable for holding the polls.