Shillong (Meghalaya), June 25: The Meghalaya High Court has directed the state government to strictly implement the plastic ban in all districts, ensuring that prohibitory orders are enforced effectively. A bench comprising Chief Justice I.P. Mukerji and Justice W. Diengdoh passed the direction while hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) on Wednesday, June 25, 2025.
The court reviewed a report filed by the State respondent, highlighting progress made in implementing the court’s orders dated August 16, 2024, and May 14, 2025. While noting that some districts, including East Khasi Hills and South Garo Hills, had issued prohibitory orders banning single-use plastic items of less than 120 microns, the court emphasized the need for comprehensive action to enforce these orders.
The court directed the State respondent to file a supplementary action taken report on the next date of hearing, August 12, 2025. Specifically, the court sought a compliance report from the authorities of East Jaintia Hills, which was not included in the report submitted by the State respondent.
The court’s direction underscores the importance of effective implementation of the plastic ban to mitigate its harmful effects on the environment and public health. The PIL will be further considered on August 12,
