SHILLONG, June 30: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) Laban Circle has urged the district administration to take appropriate action in the alleged violations and public inconvenience caused during Muharram processions held in various parts of Laban and adjoining localities on June 25 and 26.
In a memorandum submitted to East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal on Tuesday, KSU Laban Circle general secretary Shiningstar Chyne said the union received several complaints from residents regarding disturbances to public peace, traffic movement, and safety during the processions.
Chyne stated that the processions passed through Red Cross, Laban, St John area, Lower Lumparing, Civil Hospital Junction, Oxford Hill, Kench’s Trace, Oxford, Rilbong, Last Stop, and Rhino Point before returning to their point of origin. He alleged that although the district administration had permitted the events only until 9.30 p.m., the processions continued until around 11 p.m., thereby violating the prescribed conditions.
According to Chyne, students residing in Laban, Kench’s Trace, and Lower Lumparing complained that loud drumming and chanting late into the night disrupted their preparations for the ongoing mid-term examinations.
He further alleged that the processions involved sword displays and fire performances by hundreds of participants. He maintained that such activities posed serious safety concerns and reports received by the union indicated that some passers-by were struck by flying sparks during the performances.
Raising concerns over traffic management, Chyne said the processions caused significant congestion, particularly along the narrow roads in the affected localities. He alleged that the procession repeatedly halted at short intervals to stage sword-and-fire demonstrations, resulting in prolonged disruptions and inconvenience to commuters. He further claimed that emergency services, including ambulances, were affected by the traffic congestion along parts of the route.
While reaffirming the union’s respect for all religions and the right of individuals to practice their faith, Chyne stressed that religious activities should not come at the cost of public peace, tranquillity, safety, and security.
He urged the district administration to take necessary action against the organisers and ensure that future public processions are conducted strictly in accordance with the law and the conditions specified by the authorities.
