Ampati: The District Magistrate of South West Garo Hills has issued an order prohibiting the sale of petrol and diesel in jerry cans, bottles, and other containers with immediate effect in the district.
The order was issued by District Magistrate Kum. Anendya Raajsshre, IAS, in view of the escalating tension reported in certain parts of the West Garo Hills district in connection with the participation in the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) election.
The restriction has been imposed to prevent any disruption of law and order and to ensure the safety and security of the general public in South West Garo Hills.
The directive has been issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and will remain in force until further orders.
According to the order, the sale of petrol and diesel in jerry cans, bottles, and containers, as governed under the Petroleum Act, 1934 and the Petroleum Rules, 1976, is strictly prohibited.
Any person found violating the order will be liable for legal action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and other relevant provisions of the law.
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However, the issuance of diesel for mobile towers and road construction companies will continue as per the standing order of the Deputy Commissioner (Supply).
Earlier today, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma announced that the state government has decided to postpone the elections to the GHADC elections scheduled for April 10 in view of the recent violence that claimed two lives in the region. The chief minister said the decision was taken after reviewing the prevailing law-and-order situation in the Garo Hills and considering the difficulties currently being faced by residents.
