SHILLONG, MAR 19: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday said the situation in the Garo Hills has largely stabilised, with normal life gradually returning after recent unrest, even as authorities continue close monitoring to prevent any fresh flare-ups.

Speaking to reporters after meeting Governor C. H. Vijayashankar, the Chief Minister said incidents of violence have significantly reduced, with only occasional sporadic cases being reported.

“Normalcy has returned to a large extent, and people are getting back to their day-to-day lives. After assessing the situation, the internet ban has been lifted, but we are carefully monitoring developments to ensure peace is maintained,” he said.

Sangma informed that he briefed the Governor in detail about the prevailing law-and-order situation in the region, which had witnessed violent protests over the participation of non-tribals in the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) elections—a decision that was later revoked.

“For most of the last two weeks, I was in Garo Hills. During that time, we remained in constant communication with the Governor. I felt it was important to personally brief him on the situation and the sequence of events that led to the unrest,” he said.

Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, who holds the Home portfolio, accompanied the Chief Minister during the meeting.

Sangma added that the Governor has now been fully apprised of the developments. “A complete briefing on the entire matter was given. The Governor is now much more aware of what has happened,” he said.

On the issue of arrests linked to the unrest, the Chief Minister maintained that it falls strictly under the jurisdiction of the police.

“Action regarding arrests is entirely the responsibility of the police department. Decisions are taken based on evidence and legal provisions. I am not aware of the number of arrests or identities involved. The Superintendent of Police concerned will be able to provide those details,” he stated.