Procession/rally now illegal in Shillong city

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaOctober 31, 2022

With a aim to prevent any NGOs from blatantly misusing rallies/processions to indulge in criminal acts thereby disrupting public order, the District Magistrate East Khasi Hills District banned the holding of rallies or processions within whole Shillong city limits including Shillong Urban Agglomeration area.

The order was issued by District Magistrate Isawanda Laloo as per provision of Section 144 Criminal Procedure Code.

The order read that it has been observed that several NGOs/ groups/ organisers carry out
processions/ rallies within the city limits of Shillong from time to time for protesting against various issues. It has been seen that the organisers do not comply with either one or many of the conditions imposed by this authority.

The District Magistrate viewed that processions also cause severe inconvenience and disturbance to commuters, pedestrians, school-children, parents and the public at large.

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The order pointed out during the rally held in Shillong on Friday, several incidents of
assault of commuters and vandalism of vehicles took place. The incident have caused a fear psychosis amongst the public at large.

It is learnt that other NGOs and groups are also planning similar events such
as ‘surprise rallies’ within the limits of Shillong City.

The order prohibited the assembly of 5 or more people for the purpose of any rally or procession within the whole Shillong City limits, including the Shillong Urban Agglomeration area.

The order prohibited the movement of an assembly of 5 or more people in any rally or procession within the whole Shillong City limits, including the Shillong Urban Agglomeration area.

Any violation of the said order will attract penal provisions under Section 188 of the IPC,
and any other as deemed fit and appropriate.

The order however excluded religious processions which have obtained due permission and undertake to strictly adhere to conditions given.