Shillong, August 22: In a move to prevent illegal infiltration, the district administration of East Khasi Hills has imposed a night curfew along the international border with Bangladesh for the next two months. The curfew will be in effect from 8 pm to 6 am within a radius of 1 kilometre from the zero line of the border.
The order, issued by District Magistrate RM Kurbah, prohibits movement of people intending to cross the international boundary, unauthorised gatherings of five or more persons, and carrying of arms or instruments that could be used as weapons, including sticks, rods, and stones. The restrictions also cover illegal or undesirable activities such as smuggling of cattle, contraband goods, betelnut, betel leaves, dry fish, bidis, cigarettes, and tea leaves.
The curfew has been necessitated by the prevailing situation in Bangladesh, with authorities highlighting the risk of cross-border movement by illegal migrants, members of proscribed militant groups, and organized crime linked to anti-national elements. Portions of the East Khasi Hills border remain porous and prone to infiltration, particularly during night hours, raising concerns over security and law and order in the district.
“The move aims to prevent infiltration and maintain peace and tranquility in the district,” the order said, emphasizing the importance of vigilance along the border to curb illegal activities and ensure public safety.
