Tura, March 10: Several shops were vandalised and some reportedly gutted in the Chibinang area of West Garo Hills late Monday night amid unrest linked to the ongoing nomination process for the elections to the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC).
According to reports, miscreants targeted multiple shops in the area, causing significant damage to commercial establishments.
During the disturbance, police were compelled to resort to blank firing at a late hour to disperse the gathering mobs and restore law and order.
Unconfirmed reports also suggested that several individuals have sustained injuries during the incidents.
In addition, a police vehicle was reportedly vandalised by miscreants during the unrest.
Senior administrative and police officials, including magistrates, are currently camping in the affected areas and closely monitoring the situation. Security forces have been deployed in strength, with both the police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) maintaining strict vigil.
Sources further indicated that a number of youths have mobilised themselves in the area, stating that they are present to protect members of the Garo community. The situation in the area remains sensitive, with security forces continuing to monitor developments.
However, Authorities are yet to give out official details on the incidents.
Additionally, the Meghalaya government has ordered a 48-hour suspension of mobile data services in West Garo Hills from midnight March 10.
