In response to increasing reports of coercive and unauthorised fundraising practices, the East Khasi Hills district administration has banned all donation drives conducted without official approval. The directive was issued by District Magistrate RM Kurbah on June 19 and has come into immediate effect. The order follows growing concerns in the district about groups allegedly pressuring commercial establishments for donations, often without any legal or administrative clearance. Several complaints were recently reported in both print and electronic media, prompting swift action from authorities.
As per the directive, no individual or organisation is allowed to collect donations in any form—whether in cash or kind—without prior permission from the competent authority. The ban has been enforced under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), aimed at maintaining transparency and protecting both donors and intended beneficiaries from exploitation. Violators of this order will face legal consequences under Sections 308 and 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which cover unlawful activities and misuse of authority.
“The measure is necessary to prevent misuse of public goodwill and to ensure that any fundraising done in the district is lawful, transparent, and accountable,” the magistrate stated in the notification. The order was passed ex parte due to the urgency of the situation and will remain in force until further notice. The district administration has urged citizens, business owners, and local organisations to report any suspicious or unauthorised donation activities immediately. Authorities have also assured that necessary legal action will be taken against offenders to curb such practices.