SHILLONG, July 1: The East Khasi Hills district administration has issued a show-cause notice to the organisers of Muharram processions following allegations that the event exceeded the permitted time limit and caused inconvenience to residents in parts of Laban and adjoining localities.
The action comes after the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), Laban Circle, submitted a memorandum to the district administration seeking action. The processions were taken out on June 25 and 26.
Stating that the administration takes such complaints seriously, East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal told The Shillong Times that an explanation had been already sought from the organisers of the event.
“We have received a complaint from the KSU which said the processions continued until around 11 pm, beyond the permitted time, and that fire shows were also conducted. We have served a show-cause notice on the organisers who had obtained permission for the same and are awaiting their response,” Baranwal said.
He added that the administration would decide on further action only after receiving a reply from the organisers and examining the reports submitted by magistrates who were present during the event.
“From next time, we will be more vigilant. We will ensure that processions conclude strictly within the allotted time. Necessary protocols will be put in place so that no organisation takes advantage of the permissions granted or causes inconvenience to the public,” Baranwal said.
He further stated that the administration would uniformly enforce such conditions for all religious and community processions in the future, including those organised during Muharram, Ram Navami, Durga Puja and so on.
In the memorandum, KSU Laban Circle general secretary Shiningstar Chyne said the union had received complaints from residents regarding disturbances to public peace, traffic movement and safety during the processions.
He alleged that hundreds of participants took part in sword displays and fire performances during the processions, raising safety concerns. He said reports received by the union indicated that some passers-by were struck by flying sparks during the performances.
Chyne alleged that the processions caused severe traffic congestion, particularly on narrow roads in the affected localities.
He further alleged that repeated halts for sword and fire demonstrations prolonged traffic disruptions and inconvenienced commuters, while emergency services, including ambulances, were also reportedly affected.
Reiterating the union’s respect for all religions and the constitutional right to practice one’s faith, Chyne maintained that religious activities should be conducted in a manner that does not compromise public peace, safety and convenience.
He urged the district administration to take appropriate action against the organisers and ensure that future public processions strictly adhere to the conditions and regulations prescribed by the authorities.
