Tura, May 10: The district administrations of South Garo Hills, South West Garo Hills and West Garo Hills have imposed night curfews along the Indo-Bangladesh border, in response to the heightened risk of cross-border infiltration by unwanted elements, including members of proscribed militant groups and smugglers.
Both curfews have been enforced under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and are effective from 8:00 PM to 6:00 AM daily, with restrictions on movement and activities in sensitive border areas.
In South Garo Hills, the night curfew extends up to 500 meters from the zero line, while in West Garo Hills, it covers up to 200 meters. The measures come amid rising concerns over possible intrusions by members of proscribed militant groups, smugglers, and other unlawful elements exploiting unfenced and porous stretches of the border.
The curfew orders prohibit:
1. Movement of individuals attempting to cross the international boundary illegally.
2. Unauthorized gatherings or assemblies of five or more persons, especially those carrying weapons, sticks, rods, or stones near the border.
3. Illegal activities, including smuggling of cattle, contraband goods, betel nut, cigarettes, bidis, fish, and other restricted items.
