C H Vijayashankar, Governor of Meghalaya, has convened a special session of the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) following a letter from 21 Members of the District Council (MDCs) claiming that Chief Executive Member Albinush R Marak has lost the confidence of the House.
The special session took place in Tura at 11 am to discuss the political situation and address the confidence issue within the council.
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Key Facts
- Location: Tura, Meghalaya
- Council: Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC)
- Governor: C H Vijayashankar
- Chief Executive Member: Albinush R Marak
- Letter Submitted: March 14
- MDCs Supporting Motion: 21 members
- Legal Provision: Assam and Meghalaya Autonomous Districts Rules, 1951
Governor Orders Special Session
The District Council Affairs Department confirmed that the Governor received a signed letter from 21 MDCs on March 14.
The members stated that CEM Albinush R Marak no longer enjoys the support of the council’s Executive body.
Therefore, the Governor called a special session of the council to examine the issue and allow the House to address the confidence claim.
Authorities invoked Rule 36(5) of the Assam and Meghalaya Autonomous Districts (Constitution of District Councils) Rules, 1951.
Officials also scheduled the session under Rule 22(1) to handle related council business.
Political Tensions in Garo Hills
Meanwhile, political tensions have intensified in the Garo Hills region in recent weeks.
The situation escalated after the CEM issued a notification last month restricting non-tribal candidates from contesting GHADC elections.
The decision triggered strong reactions across several districts.
Many groups protested against the order, which eventually led to clashes and violent incidents.
Violence and Unrest Reported
Authorities reported incidents of arson, vandalism and damage to public property in several areas.
Vehicles and shops were targeted during the unrest.
Security forces responded to the situation, and police firing during the clashes resulted in two fatalities and multiple injuries.
Officials said law enforcement teams stepped in to prevent further escalation.
Curfew and Security Measures
To control the situation, authorities imposed curfew restrictions in several parts of West Garo Hills and nearby districts.
Security forces continue to patrol sensitive areas to maintain peace and order.
However, officials temporarily relaxed curfew restrictions in some locations.
This step allowed residents to purchase essential supplies and access necessary services.
Authorities said they continue to closely monitor the situation.
Location Context: Importance of GHADC in Northeast Governance
The Garo Hills Autonomous District Council plays a key role in local governance in the tribal regions of Meghalaya.
Autonomous district councils in Northeast India manage administrative, cultural and development matters for indigenous communities.
Therefore, political developments within GHADC often influence governance and stability in the region.
Questions and Answers
What happened in Meghalaya?
The Governor called a special session of GHADC after 21 MDCs claimed the Chief Executive Member lost the House’s confidence.
Who is the current GHADC Chief Executive Member?
Albinush R Marak currently serves as the Chief Executive Member.
Why did tensions increase in Garo Hills?
A notification restricting non-tribal candidates from GHADC elections triggered protests and unrest.
Were there casualties during the unrest?
Yes. Police firing during clashes resulted in two deaths and several injuries.
What steps have authorities taken?
Authorities imposed curfew, deployed security forces and continue to monitor the situation.
