Meghalaya Unrest: 2 Killed in Police Firing Amid GHADC Election Protests; Curfew Imposed in West Garo Hills

What Triggered the Violence

The unrest began after nominations opened for the next GHADC elections, which were scheduled for April 10. When the council decided to request that all candidates file Scheduled Tribe (ST) certificates, the protests swelled across the region. 

While some sections backed the move, others opposed it – particularly in the plains belt areas – sparking protests and increasing tensions.

Protests Turn Violent

In Tura, things only escalated after protesters reportedly blocked and assaulted former Phulbari MLA Esmatur Mominin, blocking him from filing his nomination. As officers wheeled him into a police car, he was pictured limping and missing a shoe.

Earlier, vandalism had been reported in Chibinang, with shops damaged by protesters. Police employed blank shots to disperse the crowd.

Police Firing During Curfew

Although a night curfew was instituted overnight, tensions continued. In the early hours of Tuesday, when security personnel sought to disperse a mob, they opened fire, killing two people.

Authorities Seek Army Support

The state faces a serious security challenge. After the violence broke out, West Garo Hills District Magistrate Vibhor Aggarwal sought the assistance of the Indian Army so that a flag march could be carried out across sensitive areas.

The presence of armed forces on hand, officials feel, will help residents relax, help curb further violence, and restore public confidence.

Situation Now

Security is tightened markedly in vulnerable areas of the district. Following curfew restrictions, vandalism, and incidents of police firing, the debate surrounding the GHADC elections has since spiraled into a major law-and-order crisis in Meghalaya a few weeks prior to the polls. 

That said, while the situation is closely observed by the government, authorities say there is monitoring for progress in restoring peace in the region.