Meghalaya Bans Livestock Entry Tolls Across State

Shillong: Meghalaya officials shut down livestock toll collection. The state government ordered all three Autonomous District Councils to halt the practice after declaring it illegal. Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Minister Sanbor Shullai confirmed the crackdown following a public complaint.

The issue centered on a Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council order. That directive authorized a private contractor, Francis L Nongbri of Mawlai Nongkwar, to tax animals entering the state at 19th Mile, Byrnihat. The state reviewed the plan and found it lacked legal standing. "The practice is not legally permissible," Shullai stated.

Under Secretary P Lyngdoh issued a formal notice to the District Council Affairs Department on June 30. The order mandates an immediate stop to all livestock levies. Shullai confirmed the state now expects full compliance from every council to keep the roads free of these charges.