In the wake of a protest demanding Inner Line Permit (ILP) implementation, the East Khasi Hills district administration has imposed a ban on rallies, demonstrations, and gatherings within 200 metres of key government buildings in Shillong. The restriction applies to the Meghalaya Secretariat, Additional Secretariat, and Raj Bhavan, according to an order issued by District Commissioner R.M. Kurbah on Friday.
The decision follows a rally earlier in the day by pro-ILP activists held right in front of the Secretariat, drawing large crowds and raising security concerns. The DC said such gatherings obstruct traffic, lead to crowding, and may disturb public peace and law and order. “Demonstrations in such sensitive areas can cause inconvenience and pose a potential threat to safety,” the official order stated.
Authorities have advised civil society groups and the public to use designated protest sites and warned that violations will invite legal action.The ILP demand has been a long-standing issue in Meghalaya, with various groups urging the Centre to implement the permit system to regulate the influx of outsiders and protect local identity.