By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, July 3: The Sohra Civil Sub-Division has imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) in and around the popular Weisawdong Falls, following a renewed dispute between Laitduh and Umblai villages.
The order, issued by Sub-Divisional Magistrate Mark A. Challam on Friday, effectively closes the site to all visitors, including tourists, until further notice.
The move follows intelligence reports that residents of Umblai village intended to dig a new approach path to the falls on July 4. Authorities apprehended that this action could lead to a direct confrontation with residents of Laitduh village, who currently hold custody of the site.
The dispute persists despite an August 2025 demarcation order by the Syiem of Hima Sohra, which placed Weisawdong Falls under the management of Laitduh village. While that order was legally challenged, an interim agreement was reached in September 2025 to maintain the arrangement in the interest of peace and local tourism.
Under the current prohibitory order, the assembly of five or more persons is banned within a 200-metre radius of the falls and its approach routes. The administration has also prohibited the carrying of weapons, including machetes, sticks and firearms.
The magistrate warned that any violation would lead to prosecution under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Describing the situation as urgent, the administration stated the order was issued ex parte and takes immediate effect.
