Army Deployed and Internet Suspended in Meghalaya Following Deadly Election Violence
The Indian Army was called into action in Meghalaya's West Garo Hills district on Tuesday, with mobile internet services simultaneously blocked, after overnight violence resulted in two fatalities. The unrest erupted amidst tensions surrounding the upcoming April 10 elections for the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC), involving clashes between the Garo community and supporters of non-tribal candidates.
Root Cause: New ST Certificate Requirement Sparks Conflict
The violence unfolded against a backdrop of heightened tensions, triggered by an official notification mandating that candidates produce valid Scheduled Tribe (ST) certificates when filing nomination papers. This marked a significant departure from previous practices that had allowed non-tribal individuals to participate in the council elections. To defuse the situation, the administration had imposed a night curfew, but clashes broke out regardless.
Currently, the council is administered by Chief Minister Conrad Sangma's National People's Party (NPP). The conflict intensified following an alleged assault on Monday involving former Phulbari legislator S G Esmatur Mominin, a Bengali-speaking Muslim. Mominin was reportedly attacked while arriving at the deputy commissioner's office in Tura to file his nomination, accompanied by fellow aspirant Enamul Haque. Police intervened to rescue and escort both individuals to safety.
Violence Escalates with Arson and Confrontations
The epicenter of the violence was identified as Chibinang, where mobs from hilly areas and plains engaged in confrontations throughout the night. Incidents of arson were reported at multiple locations, including the district headquarters town of Tura. Vehicles were set ablaze, and buildings were targeted with stone-pelting. Fire and emergency services responded promptly to bring the fires under control, with no fatalities reported in the Tura area, according to an official statement.
Conflicting Reports on Casualties and Official Response
Initial reports suggested that the two deaths occurred due to police firing aimed at controlling riotous mobs, though the identities of the deceased have not been officially confirmed. However, the West Garo Hills administration issued a denial late Tuesday, stating, "The exact cause of death remains unknown at this stage. The unrest is understood to have arisen from protests by certain organisations, opposing the candidature of non-tribal individuals in the GHADC elections."
This incident underscores the volatile nature of electoral politics in the region, particularly concerning tribal rights and representation. The deployment of the army and suspension of internet services highlight the severity of the situation as authorities work to restore order ahead of the council polls.
