Meghalaya to invoke Act to foil Garo Hills shutdown call

The state government today said provisions of the of Meghalaya Maintenance of Public Order (Amendment) Act will be invoked against leaders of an organization who have called a two-day shutdown in the Garo Hills region demanding early elections in the Garo Hilla Autonomous District Council.
The All Achik Youth Federation had threatened to launch a series of agitations which will begin with a poster campaign on May 18 followed by a non cooperation movement on May 19 and 20. The AAYF also sponsors the night road blockade during these days which will continue till May 21.
"The district administration will invoke provisions and penal sections of the Meghalaya Maintenance of Public Order (Amendment) Act, 2013 to deal with any threat, intimidation or forced closure as well as loss to economy and business," West Garo Hills district Deputy Commissioner Pravin Bakshi said.

Since security have been beefed up to thwart any attempt to disrupt peace, he said, instructions have been issued to the state and central government institutions to remain open and functional.
"All officers and staff shall also report for duty and it will be observed that all banks, post offices are opened and fully functional for the service of the people," he said in an order issued today.
While strict instructions were given, the district administration in the Garo Hills division headquarter, Tura, will videograph all office areas on the days of the bandh.
The government official also said a civil suit for damages shall follow against any damage to properties and loss to business in the district.

The AAYF's earlier ultimatum which ended May 15, demanded the state government to dissolve the present executive committee as well as to fix the date for election to the GHADC which has been extended thrice since last year in the hope to accommodate surrendered militants.