Tura, March 10: Authorities have imposed a night curfew across East Garo Hills District including Williamnagar town following incidents of violence that took place on Tuesday night wherein mobs attacked places of religious gatherings of a particular community and ransacked shops owned by them.
District Magistrate R P Marak issued the curfew order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita after reports indicated a likelihood of disturbances that could threaten public peace, human life and property.
According to officials, unidentified miscreants allegedly attacked places of religious gathering at Warima locality of town, vandalised shops and-looted foods, raising concerns over the law and order situation in the district.
Mobs of several hundred people descended on the streets of Williamnagar town, after nightfall, going on a rampage, selectively targeting a particular community, similar to what took place in Tura and Chibinang.
The administration said the curfew has been imposed as a preventive measure to avoid further escalation and maintain public tranquillity.
Under the order, residents are prohibited from moving outside their homes during curfew hours across the district.
The night curfew will remain in force from 10:00 PM on March 10 until 5:00 AM on March 11, and again from 8:00 PM on March 11 until 5:00 AM on March 12.
However, certain categories have been exempted from the restrictions, including police, armed forces and security personnel on duty, magistrates and government officials on official duty, medical personnel, ambulances and emergency services, as well as persons engaged in essential services as notified by the district administration.
All law enforcement agencies and executive magistrates have been directed to strictly enforce the curfew order to prevent any further disturbance.
Officials warned that any violation of the curfew will attract legal action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and other applicable laws.
Due to the urgent situation, the order was issued ex parte and is being promulgated through public announcements, media and other means by the district administration.
