SHILLONG: The government of Meghalaya has ordered the imposition of a night curfew along the Indo-Bangladesh international border in an attempt to curb infiltration and illegal movements in various districts.
The curfew from 8 PM to 6 AM will remain in force in specific border districts of East Khasi Hills, West Jaintia Hills, and East Jaintia Hills.
The official directive, issued in the face of increasing concerns over the unfenced and porous sections of the border, seeks to check the flow of members of banned militant organizations, smugglers, and other illicit groups.
The authorities are concerned that such elements would take advantage of the geographical weaknesses of the area to enter Indian territory or flee into Bangladesh.
The curfew expressly forbids any movement of persons to cross the international border either into or out of India. The order further prohibits unauthorised processions, illegal gatherings of five or more persons, and the possession of arms or possible weapons in and around the border regions.
Furthermore, smuggling of cattle, contraband items, and products like betelnut, betel leaves, dry fish, bidis, cigarettes, and tea leaves (chai patti) is prohibited.
In East Khasi Hills, the night curfew will be imposed within a radius of one kilometre from the Zero Line along the international border. In East Jaintia Hills, the curfew will extend up to 500 metres from the border, and in West Jaintia Hills, the restriction will be within 200 metres from the Zero Line.
The authorities have appealed to citizens to comply with the curfew rule, asserting the actions are necessary for the country's security and the upholding of law and order.
The government has also cautioned against stringent action in case of any breaches, emphasizing its resolve towards sealing the border areas from illegal incursion and smuggling operations.
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