Curfew Relaxed in Meghalaya's Tura Town as Normalcy Gradually Returns After Unrest
In a significant development, the curfew imposed in Tura, located in Meghalaya's West Garo Hills district, was relaxed for two hours on Thursday, from 12 pm to 2 pm. This move comes as normalcy slowly returns to the cosmopolitan town following two days of intense unrest and violence. The relaxation allowed residents to venture out, purchase essential items, and begin cleaning up their surroundings in this scenic but now ravaged area.
Curfew Schedule Adjusted; Internet Remains Suspended
West Garo Hills district magistrate Vibhor Aggarwal announced that from Friday onwards, the curfew in Tura will be further relaxed, with hours extended from 2 pm to 4 pm daily until further orders. This adjustment aims to facilitate more access for residents while maintaining security. However, internet services on mobile telephones remain suspended across the region as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of misinformation and curb further agitation.
Meanwhile, in the East Garo Hills district, the curfew was also relaxed on Thursday, from 8 am to 1 pm, to enable people to procure essential supplies. No fresh incidents of violence have been reported in Tura since the initial unrest, indicating a tentative return to peace.
Unrest Triggered by GHADC Election Controversy
The curfew was originally imposed in response to widespread unrest during protests that opposed the participation of non-tribals in the elections to the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC). The controversy prompted the government to postpone the polls, which were initially slated for April 10. The decision to delay the elections was aimed at defusing tensions and preventing further escalation of violence in the region.
CM Conrad Sangma Visits Tura, Assesses Damage
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, who represents the South Tura assembly constituency, visited Tura town on Thursday along with his physician wife and Gambegre MLA Mehtab Chandee A Sangma. During his visit, the CM interacted with residents, community leaders, and local officials to gauge the situation firsthand. He directed the West Garo Hills district administration to provide immediate food assistance to communities affected by the disturbances.
After inspecting areas where shops and structures were damaged, CM Sangma assured residents of necessary government support for those impacted by the violence. "Visited several locations in Tura today to assess the damage caused to public and private properties across the town. It is truly heartbreaking to witness the extent of the destruction. Distressed to see the loss suffered by individuals and commercial establishments," the CM stated.
Extensive Damage Reported in Key Localities
Most of the damage was concentrated in the Araimile locality, where a building was set on fire and several shops were looted. In Hawakhana, the office of the ruling National People's Party was ransacked, and a place of worship in the main market area was vandalised and set ablaze. These incidents highlight the severity of the unrest and the targeted nature of the attacks.
On Wednesday night, violent groups attempted to head towards the Chief Minister's residence with intentions of arson and attacks on his family. This move was pre-empted by security forces, including the Army, CRPF, and local police, who maintained constant vigil to prevent any harm.
CM's Appeal for Peace and Unity
Through social media, CM Conrad Sangma issued a heartfelt appeal to the people of Meghalaya. "At times like these our humanity must rise above the issues. I humbly appeal to all my people to uphold the spirit of peace, respect and brotherhood that defines us. Let us protect what we have built together and refrain from acts of vandalism and aggression. Our strength as a community lies in our unity and compassion for one another," he urged.
This call for calm underscores the government's commitment to restoring harmony and addressing the underlying issues that led to the unrest. As the curfew relaxations continue, authorities remain vigilant to ensure the safety and security of all residents in Tura and surrounding areas.
