Shillong, May 8: The Government of Meghalaya has constituted a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the violence and social unrest that erupted in Garo Hills following the filing of nomination papers for the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council elections on March 9, 2026.
According to an official notification issued by the Home (Political) Department, the inquiry has been ordered under the provisions of the Commission of Inquiry Act, 1952, in view of the disturbances, loss of lives, and damage to property reported in the region.
The Commission will be headed by retired judge Justice T. Vaiphei, who has been appointed Chairman of the panel.
The inquiry will examine the circumstances that led to the violence in West Garo Hills and determine whether there were any lapses or failures on the part of authorities or individuals in preventing the incident.
The Commission has been tasked with conducting a comprehensive fact-finding investigation into the unrest and identifying its root causes. It will also recommend administrative and institutional reforms aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.
Additionally, the panel will suggest measures for relief and compensation, including financial assistance for families affected by the violence and those who suffered property losses.
The Commission has been directed to submit its report and recommendations to the State Government within six months from the date of the notification.
Proceedings of the inquiry will primarily be conducted in Tura, unless otherwise directed by the Commission.
The panel has also been granted powers under various provisions of the Commission of Inquiry Act, including the authority to frame its own procedures and seek assistance from officials, experts, or other bodies during the course of the investigation.
The notification was issued by Chief Secretary Dr. Shakil P. Ahammed, IAS, by order of the Governor of Meghalaya.
