Tura: The West Garo Hills district administration in Meghalaya has extended the existing curfew for another 24 hours, from 6:00 am on March 16 to 6:00 am on March 17.
A fresh order was issued by the District Magistrate of West Garo Hills on Sunday. The curfew extension has been ordered as a preventive measure to restore peace and normalcy in the region.
The order issued by Vibhor Agarwal, IAS, District Magistrate of West Garo Hills, read, “Upon careful assessment of the situation and reports received from law enforcement agencies, I am satisfied that continuation of stringent preventive measures is necessary to restore normalcy and prevent further escalation of violence.”
“Now therefore, I, Shri Vibhor Agarwal, IAS, District Magistrate, West Garo Hills District, in exercise of the powers conferred upon me under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, do hereby extend the curfew imposed within the entire jurisdiction of West Garo Hills District for a further period,” it added.
Citizens are restricted to move outside their residence within the limits of West Garo Hills during the curfew period.
However, as per the order, the curfew will be relaxed for 12 hours, from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm on March 16, to facilitate normal activities. During the relaxation period, all educational institutions, offices, banks, and other establishments will function normally.
“All law enforcement agencies, Executive Magistrates and police officers within West Garo Hills District are hereby directed to strictly enforce this order and take necessary action against any person found violating the curfew” the order read.
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Meanwhile, the Peace Crusade led by church leaders continued for the fourth consecutive day, with a prayer service held at Chandmari Playground in Tura.
The District Administration reiterated its gratitude to the local communities for their sustained efforts in preventing further violence and maintaining peace.
Security forces remain deployed at all strategic locations as the administration and police continue to closely monitor the situation across the district.
