Tura, March 5: The District Administration of West Garo Hills District has imposed prohibitory orders across the district ahead of a 24-hour Non-Cooperation Movement (NCM) called by the President of the Garo Students’ Union, Tengsak G. Momin.
According to an order issued by Vibhor Aggarwal, District Magistrate of West Garo Hills, the NCM is scheduled to be observed from 5:00 am on March 6 to 5:00 am on March 7, 2026.
The administration stated that there is a possibility of obstruction or intimidation affecting the movement of vehicles and normal public life during the agitation, which could lead to a breach of peace, disturbance of public tranquility, and potential damage to property.
Citing directions of the Meghalaya High Court in WP(C)/SH/127 of 2015, the order noted that bandhs violate the fundamental rights of citizens guaranteed under Articles 19 and 21 of the Constitution of India. The court had also directed print and electronic media to refrain from publicizing calls for bandhs, hartals, road blockades or rallies with unlawful intent.
Invoking powers under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, the District Magistrate has prohibited:
Obstruction of movement of vehicles.
Carrying or concealing lathis, sticks, stones, firearms, or any lethal weapons.
Obstructing the lawful operation of shops, establishments, or offices.
Unlawful assembly of five or more persons aimed at causing such obstructions.
The order came into force with immediate effect on March 5 and will remain applicable throughout West Garo Hills district. However, it will not apply to armed forces, paramilitary personnel, and other law enforcement agencies on official duty.
The administration stated that the order was issued ex-parte due to the emergent nature of the situation to prevent any breach of peace or loss of life and property.
