Shillong: The Government of Meghalaya has ordered the temporary suspension of mobile internet services in West Garo Hills for 48 hours following incidents that could disturb public peace and law and order in Tura.
The notification was issued by F. R. Kharkongor, IAS, Principal Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya, Home (Political) Department.
According to the order, reports from the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police of West Garo Hills indicated several incidents on March 9, 2026, including assaults on civilians, large crowd gatherings and the spread of misinformation on social media linked to the filing of nominations for the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council Election 2026.
Authorities expressed concern that social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, X, Instagram, and YouTube could be used to circulate pictures, videos and messages capable of triggering unrest.
To prevent misuse of these platforms and maintain public order, the government has suspended mobile internet data services of all mobile service providers in the district for 48 hours starting from 12:00 AM on March 10, 2026.
The order has been issued under Section 5(2) of the Indian Telegraph Act 1885 read with the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rules, 2017.
Officials warned that any violation of the order will attract action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and other relevant provisions of the Indian Telegraph Act.
The suspension aims to prevent the spread of misinformation and ensure peace and public safety in the district.
