Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills district administration has imposed a night curfew along the Meghalaya-Bangladesh border in the district to prevent entry of unwanted elements from across the border in view of the current situation in the neighbouring country. An order issued by District Magistrate Rosetta Mary Kurbah noted that the situation across the border has increased the likelihood of movement by unwanted elements, including members of proscribed militant groups, smugglers, and others involved in illegal activities. The administration stated that several portions of the border in East Khasi Hills remain porous and prone to infiltration by illegal migrants and individuals linked to organised crime and armed insurgent groups, who often gather in large numbers during night hours to carry out their activities. The order warned that, if left unchecked, such movements could lead to uncontrolled cross-border infiltration and disrupt peace and tranquillity in the district.
Invoking powers under Section 163 of BNSS, the District Magistrate declared a night curfew from 8 pm to 6 pm, effective immediately, within a one-kilometre radius from the Zero Line. The curfew prohibits the movement of individuals attempting to cross the international boundary, any unauthorised procession or unlawful assembly of five or more persons carrying arms or objects that may be used as weapons, and all illegal activities including the smuggling of cattle, contraband goods, betel nut, betel leaves, dry fish, bidis, cigarettes, and tea leaves. The order, issued ex-parte in view of the urgency, will remain in force for two months from the date of issue unless modified earlier.