Shillong, June 30: A new chapter in Meghalaya’s justice delivery began Tuesday as Chief Justice Revati Mohite Dere laid the foundation stone for the permanent District and Sessions Court Complex for East Khasi Hills at Umsawli, Mawpat.
Calling it a “historic moment,” Chief Justice Dere said the complex will replace Shillong’s century-old District Court, which has run out of space for judges, lawyers, and a rising number of cases. The new facility promises more courtrooms, better access for litigants, and tech-driven case disposal to cut delays.
“Good infrastructure is no longer a luxury — it’s essential for timely justice,” she said, noting that the building will support provisions under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, with video recording of evidence, e-filing, witness deposition rooms, and video conferencing.
She added that the district judiciary is the first point of contact for citizens, and the complex is being built on principles of accessibility, integrity, efficiency, and humanity for every citizen seeking justice — including women, children, farmers, and daily wage earners.
Law Minister Lahkmen Rymbui said the project will significantly strengthen justice delivery. Citing lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, he stressed the need for better infrastructure and tech integration and assured full state support to complete the complex on time.
The event was attended by Justice H.S. Thangkhiew, Justice W. Diengdoh, Justice B. Bhattacharjee, Shillong Bar Association President H.R. Nath, judicial officers, Bar members, and senior officials.
