GHADC Poll Protests: Two killed in police firing in Meghalaya's West Garo Hills

Guwahati: Two persons were killed on Tuesday when security forces opened fire to disperse violent mobs in Meghalaya's West Garo Hills district. The incident occurred when tribal and non-tribal groups clashed in Chibinang over the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) election nomination process. GHADC elections are scheduled for April 10. The unrest began after former Phulbari legislator Estamur Mominin was allegedly assaulted by protesters when he arrived at DC office in Tura to file his nomination. Protesters have been demanding that non-tribals should not contest or participate in elections. A senior police officer said, "The firing took place as officers intervened to control a gathering despite curfew restrictions. The administration extended the night curfew to a full-day clampdown across West Garo Hills." On Monday, authorities had imposed a night curfew in 37 villages after protests.