Shillong, August 20, 2026: The High Court of Meghalaya on Thursday took up a public interest litigation on its own motion over the violence reported during a public procession in Shillong on August 19, and directed the State authorities to intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible.
A Division Bench comprising Justice H.S. Thangkhiew and Justice W. Diengdoh took note of what it described as the “unfortunate incidents” during a procession organised by an NGO.
The Court observed that extensive damage had been caused to public property, including government vehicles, outstation vehicles and public transport vehicles. It also noted that common citizens, including school-going children, had been endangered and statues of national heroes had been desecrated during the incidents.
Appearing for the State, Advocate General A. Kumar informed the Court that authorities had already initiated action and that some office-bearers of the organisation had been arrested.
The High Court, however, said more intensive steps were required immediately to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
The Bench directed the State authorities to file a report detailing the steps taken by August 24, when the matter will be taken up again.
The case has been registered as PIL No. 16 of 2026, Registrar General, High Court of Meghalaya versus State of Meghalaya.
