West Garo Hills Administration Imposes BNSS Section 163 Prohibitory Orders Following NGO Assault Incident
The district administration of West Garo Hills in Meghalaya has taken decisive action by imposing prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) across several sensitive areas. This measure comes in direct response to reports of an assault on members of a non-governmental organization (NGO) and growing apprehensions of potential communal tension in the region.
Incident Triggers Security Concerns in Goalgaon Area
According to an official order issued by District Magistrate Vibhor Aggarwal, the triggering incident was reported from the Goalgaon area, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Rajabala Police Station. The assault on NGO members has raised significant concerns among authorities regarding a possible breach of peace and public tranquility, particularly in the plain belt regions of West Garo Hills.
The administration's order highlights that recent incidents of tension in mixed-population areas have reportedly stemmed from miscommunication and misunderstandings. These events have contributed to a growing atmosphere of mistrust among different communities, leading to heightened public anxiety and fear of escalation.
Immediate Preventive Measures Implemented
Faced with this volatile situation, the district administration determined that urgent preventive measures were absolutely necessary to avert any untoward incidents that could threaten law and order. The prohibitory order represents a proactive step to maintain stability and ensure the safety of all residents.
Under the terms of the order, several strict restrictions have been implemented:
- Assembly of five or more persons is completely prohibited
- Carrying of arms or any weapons is banned
- Possession of objects that could be used as weapons—including sticks, rods, and stones—is forbidden
These restrictions are effective from 6 pm on January 23 and will remain in force until 6 am on a date to be specified later, essentially until further notice from authorities.
Geographical Scope and Legal Consequences
The prohibitory order covers sensitive areas falling under four police station jurisdictions:
- Hallidayganj
- Rajabala
- Phulbari
- Tura
This security measure extends across 37 villages within these jurisdictions, representing a comprehensive approach to maintaining order in potentially volatile areas.
The administration has issued a stern warning that any violations of these prohibitory orders will attract penal action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) along with other applicable laws. The order was issued ex-parte and came into force with immediate effect, underscoring the urgency of the situation as perceived by district authorities.
This development reflects the administration's commitment to preemptively addressing security concerns before they escalate into more serious incidents, particularly in areas with diverse population demographics where misunderstandings can quickly lead to tension.
