Shillong: East Khasi Hills district officials served a show-cause notice to Muharram organizers this week. The move follows public complaints about late-night events in Laban and surrounding neighborhoods. The processions, held June 25 and 26, reportedly stretched past permitted hours.
The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) triggered the action with a formal complaint. They highlighted safety risks during the event. Participants performed sword displays and fire shows on narrow, crowded streets. Residents reported flying sparks hitting pedestrians and emergency vehicles getting stuck in the gridlock.
“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,” said Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal. The administration is now waiting for a response from the event organizers.
Officials will review reports from local magistrates before deciding on penalties. Baranwal promised stricter enforcement moving forward. He plans to apply standard conditions to all future religious and community processions, including Durga Puja and Ram Navami. The administration aims to stop organizers from abusing public permits.
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