Days after a massive brawl spilled over in arson and assaulting police personnel, the District Magistrate of East Khasi Hills has slapped a 10pm curfew on various recreational activities.
RM Kurbah said that “preventive measures need to be taken to ensure the safety and security of the public and to maintain peace and tranquility within the city” as such incidents “may cause disturbance, pose a threat to daily commuters and endanger the lives of the public at large”.
Under Section 144 of the CrPC, Kurbah restricted the opening hours of shops, food stalls, restaurants and “enterprises” in and around Shillong city to 10 pm. What exactly constitutes an enterprise was not made clear. The order also did not include bars but these operate under their own opening hours.
She also banned the consumption of intoxicants and engaging in “any unlawful activities” in vehicles, playing loud music near educational and/or religious institutions, hospitals and residential areas, especially after 10pm.
The order will come into force with effect from July 12, 2023 and shall remain in force until further orders.
