Shillong: West Garo Hills Curfew Extended Amid Precautionary Measures
The district administration in Shillong has announced an extension of the curfew in the restive West Garo Hills region, as the situation gradually returns to normal. The curfew, initially in effect, has been prolonged from 6 am on Saturday to 6 am on Monday, implemented as a precautionary step to ensure no further deterioration in law and order.
Curfew Details and Exemptions
Essential services, including hospitals, pharmacies, utilities, and emergency services, have been exempted from the curfew restrictions. To facilitate public movement and regular activities, authorities have allowed relaxation periods: from 9 am to 3 pm on Saturday and from 6 am to 6 pm on Sunday. This measure aims to balance security concerns with the needs of residents during this tense period.
Social Media Restrictions for Government Employees
In a significant move, Deputy Commissioner Vibhor Agarwal issued a strict order directing all government employees to exercise "utmost restraint" on social media platforms. The order explicitly prohibits posting or forwarding messages, audio-video clips, pictures, or any content that may be "incendiary or provocative in nature."
The directive specifies that no government employee or servant shall post or comment on any personal or social media outlet, channels, etc., relating to law and order incidents in other districts or states. Such actions, if they relate to public sentiment or ideology, could evoke reaction or resentment among certain sections of society and potentially exacerbate the already tense situation.
Compliance and Consequences
Heads of offices have been tasked with ensuring compliance with this order. Agarwal warned that violations would invite legal proceedings under relevant laws and disciplinary action under the Meghalaya Civil Services (Discipline & Appeal) Rules, 2019. This underscores the administration's commitment to maintaining peace and preventing any escalation through irresponsible online behavior.
Control Room for Public Assistance
A control room has been established at the District Disaster Management Authority office in Tura to monitor law and order and respond to public concerns. An official statement provided contact details for assistance: 6009926806 or 1077. Members of the public with enquiries or requiring help are encouraged to use these dedicated numbers.
These measures reflect the administration's proactive approach to stabilizing the region, combining curfew extensions with digital discipline to safeguard community harmony.
