A critical shortage of burial grounds and crematoria in Meghalaya has led the High Court to call for immediate action from a state-appointed committee responsible for resolving interfaith disputes over funeral facilities. The division bench, comprising Chief Justice IP Mukerji and Justice W Diengdoh, expressed their concern regarding the slow progress in addressing conflicts among various religious groups seeking access to these essential sites.
This case underscores the complex religious tensions in the northeastern state, where non-Christian Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo tribes, alongside Hindus, are embroiled in disputes over the sharing of crematoria. Simultaneously, different Christian denominations face difficulties accessing cemeteries.
Amicus Curiae N Syngkon informed the court that a committee meeting held on August 27 had decided to establish district-level committees and pursue government funding to address these issues. However, the judges deemed this approach insufficient given the urgency of the situation.
The court ordered, “Considering the importance of the issue and the urgency involved, we direct the Committee to act with more speed,” emphasizing that district committees must operate strictly under the oversight of the committee formed under the court’s orders.
Additionally, the court has mandated that the committee promptly approach the government to secure land acquisitions and allocate space for new crematoria and cemeteries. The state government is required to “take all steps to acquire land and release funds for implementation of our order,” based on the recommendations from the committee.
A follow-up hearing has been scheduled for October 23, during which the court expects a progress report. To facilitate ongoing legal representation, the judges also approved additional compensation for the Amicus Curiae.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/meghalaya/story/meghalaya-high-court-fast-tracks-crematorium-and-cemetery-crisis-in-state-1271507-2025-09-02?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-09-02 22:32:00
