Meghalaya Lifts Internet Ban in Garo Hills Amid Improved Situation

The Meghalaya government has lifted the internet ban in the Garo Hills region following a review of the law and order situation, which has shown improvement. This decision comes after violent incidents led to unrest and the deaths of two individuals. The lifting of the ban is expected to benefit residents and businesses significantly. Additionally, the state has postponed the upcoming elections for the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council to ensure a conducive environment for the democratic process. Ongoing investigations into the violence have resulted in several arrests, with more expected.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 18, 2026, 17:20 IST

Internet Services Restored in Garo Hills

Shillong, Mar 18: The Meghalaya government announced on Wednesday that it has lifted the suspension of internet services across all five districts in the Garo Hills region, following a reassessment of the law and order situation.

An official statement from the Home (Political) Department confirmed that the previous order, which had halted mobile data and internet access in West Garo, East Garo, South Garo, North Garo, and South West Garo hills districts, is now revoked effective immediately.

This decision comes after officials noted a positive shift in the situation, which has shown signs of improvement in recent days.

The internet suspension was initially enforced as a precautionary step following violent incidents that resulted in the deaths of two individuals and unrest in the area, particularly in Tura, where reports of clashes, vandalism, and property damage emerged.

The unrest was fueled by protests against a GHADC notification that restricted non-tribals from participating in the tribal council elections, according to officials.

The lifting of the internet ban has provided much-needed relief to local residents, businesses, and educational institutions in the Garo Hills.

Additionally, the state government has postponed the elections for the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council, originally scheduled for April 10, until October, emphasizing the need to restore normalcy and create a suitable environment for the electoral process.

In the meantime, law enforcement has detained several individuals linked to the violence, and investigations are ongoing, with authorities suggesting that further arrests may occur.