The Government of Meghalaya on Wednesday lifted the suspension of internet services across all five districts of the violence-hit Garo Hills region after reviewing the law and order situation, officials said.
The restriction had been imposed as a precautionary measure following incidents of violence that left two persons dead and triggered unrest in parts of the region, particularly in Tura, where clashes, vandalism and damage to property were reported.
Protests had erupted over a notification issued by the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC), which barred non-tribals from participating in the tribal council elections, fuelling tensions across the region.
An order issued by the Home (Political) Department stated that the earlier notification dated March 11, suspending mobile data and internet services in West Garo Hills, East Garo Hills, South Garo Hills, North Garo Hills and South West Garo Hills districts, has been revoked with immediate effect.
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Officials said the decision to restore internet services followed a review of the prevailing situation, which has shown signs of improvement in recent days.
The lifting of the suspension brought relief to residents, businesses and institutions across the Garo Hills, where connectivity disruptions had affected daily life and essential services.
The state government had earlier postponed the April 10 elections to the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council until October, citing the need to restore normalcy and ensure a conducive environment for the democratic process.
Meanwhile, police have arrested several individuals in connection with the violence, and investigations are ongoing. Authorities indicated that further arrests may follow as they continue to identify those involved in the clashes.
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