Tura, Oct 15: The West Garo Hills district administration has termed the call for a “Non-Cooperation Movement” by several Garo organizations as “unconstitutional” and “illegal” on the basis of a judgement given by the Meghalaya High Court in 2015 prohibiting any form of protest that obstructs the fundamental rights of citizens in the state.
Section 144 CrPC, now known as Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), has been imposed across the Garo Hills in view of the protest announcement given by several Garo organizations to oppose the PPP Mode for the Tura Medical College and the state government’s move to aid the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council with release of their monthly salaries.
In view of the proposed Non-Cooperation Movement (NCM) called by the conglomeration of NGOs with effect from 16th to 17th October 2025, from 05:00 AM to 05:00 PM. It is to be noted that the Hon’ble High Court of Meghalaya, in its judgment dated 27.05.2015 in W.P. (C) No. 127/2015, has categorically declared that calling for or enforcing any form of bandh, strike, or Non-Cooperation Movement etc. which obstructs the fundamental rights of citizens to move freely and to carry on their lawful duties and business is unconstitutional and illegal, stated a notification from A T Sangma, Superintendent of Police.
“The Deputy Commissioner, West Garo Hills, Tura, has also promulgated an order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023 vide Memo No. CB.20/2024/322 dated 15.10.2025, prohibiting any form of obstruction, coercion, or disruption of normal movement of the public, vehicles, and functioning of offices, markets, and other establishments etc. during the said period. All concerned are hereby directed to strictly comply with the said order in the interest of maintaining peace and public order in the district,” stated the district police chief.
Furthermore, the West Garo Hills District Police shall ensure adequate deployment of forces across the district to maintain peace and prevent any untoward incidents. Strict legal action shall be taken against any individual or organization attempting to enforce the said Non-Cooperation Movement or disturb public order, as per relevant provisions of law. All citizens are therefore requested to cooperate with the District Administration and the Police to maintain peace, harmony, and normalcy in their respective areas, added the SP.
Members of the general public have been urged to remain vigilant and to immediately inform the nearest Police Station, Out Post, or Beat House about any attempt by individuals or organizations to enforce the Non-Cooperation Movement or to disrupt public order and normal activities.
Any suspicious gathering or activity intending to create disturbance may also be reported to the Police Control Room (PCR), Tura, at the following mobile numbers: +91 88374 23053, +91 70055 30510, and +91 90891 99064, said the police chief and reiterated the need for cooperation of the public in ensuring peace and normalcy in the district.
