Shillong: The Hynniewtrep National Youth Front (HNYF) wants festival organizers off the streets. On September 29, 2026, the group sent a formal letter to the East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner. HNYF president Steve Raymond Khyriem signed the document. They demand local authorities stop the construction of Durga Puja pandals on main roads.
Pandals block traffic. The HNYF singled out R.R. Colony, Laban, Polo, Rilbong, and the Garikhana to Umshyrpi stretch as major trouble spots. These setups historically force pedestrians into danger and create citywide delays. The group claims they support the religious holiday but insist that public roads must remain open for daily commuters.
The HNYF stated, "the HNYF stated firmly that erecting pandals directly on busy public roads causes unnecessary chaos for daily commuters and residents." Roadblocks slow down trade and delay emergency services. It creates a mess for the entire city.
The Central Puja Committee is waiting on the government. They received notice of the letter and now await official instructions from the administration. Officials must now balance religious tradition against the immediate need for functional city infrastructure.
Updated at 30th September 2026 at 2:15pm
The youth group specifically flagged the RR Colony-Rynjah area as a primary point of concern. Official documents also list the group leader as Steveson Raymond Khryiem.
The standoff forces the district administration to weigh the community's desire to keep longstanding cultural traditions alive against the urban reality of gridlocked streets and compromised access for emergency responders.
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