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High Court of Meghalaya · body

2025 DAILYLAW 336 (MEG)

MONJU DAS v. THE KHASI HILLS AUTONOMOUS DISTRICT COUNCIL AND 5 ORS.

MC(WPC)/222/2025 · 2026-09-09

H S Thangkhiew

Writ Petition (Civil)body2025

Judgment text

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1 Serial No. 01-43 Regular List HIGH COURT OF MEGHALAYA AT SHILLONG MC(WPC) No. 201 of 2025 with MC(WPC) No. 202 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 203 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 204 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 205 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 206 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 207 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 208 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 209 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 210 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 211 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 212 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 213 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 214 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 215 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 216 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 217 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 218 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 219 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 220 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 221 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 222 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 223 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 224 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 225 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 226 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 227 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 228 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 229 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 230 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 231 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 232 of 2025 2026:MLHC:999 2 MC(WPC) No. 233 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 234 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 235 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 236 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 237 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 238 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 239 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 240 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 241 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 242 of 2025 MC(WPC) No. 243 of 2025 in WP(C). No. 352 of 2022 (disposed of) Date of Decision: 09.09.2026 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 201 of 2025 Shri. Chanchal Debnath, S/o (L) Thakur Chand Debnath, R/o Chaklabasti, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 2026:MLHC:999 3 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents In MC[WP(C)]. No. 202 of 2025 Shri. Hiralal Deb, S/o (L) Mohanlal Deb, R/o New Majai, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 2026:MLHC:999 4 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya …Respondents In MC[WP(C)]. No. 203 of 2025 Shri. Moloy Das, S/o Shri. M. Das, R/o New Majai Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, 2026:MLHC:999 5 Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents In MC[WP(C)]. No. 204 of 2025 Shri. Samar Sarkar, S/o (L) Suresh Ch. Sarkar, R/o Majai Bholagani, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 2026:MLHC:999 6 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents In MC[WP(C)]. No. 205 of 2025 Shri. Sajib Debnath, S/o (L) T.C.Debnath, R/o Dharambasti Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, 2026:MLHC:999 7 East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents In MC[WP(C)]. No. 206 of 2025 Shri. Jhuntu Das, S/o Shri. S. Das, R/o Dharambasti Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 8 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 207 of 2025 Shri. Pradeep Sinha, S/o Satyajit Sinha, R/o New Majai, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 9 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 208 of 2025 Shri. Sanjay Chakraborty, S/o. (L) S. Chakraborty, R/o Dharambasti, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 10 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 209 of 2025 Shri. Sujit Das, S/o (L) Akhil Das, R/o Majai Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 11 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 210 of 2025 Shri. Bikash Das, S/o (L) Brojendra Kumar Das, R/o New Majai, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 12 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 211 of 2025 Shri. Bishnu Paul, S/o (L) Binay Bhushan Paul, R/o Chaklabasti, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 13 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 212 of 2025 Shri. Bakul Das, S/o Shri. Bolu Das, R/o Chaklabasti Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 14 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 213 of 2025 Shri. Ankur Das, S/o Shri P. Das, R/o Dharambasti Bholaganj. East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 15 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 214 of 2025 Shri. Niklesh Malakar, S/o (L) Nipen Malakar, R/o New Majai, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 16 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 215 of 2025 Shri. Biplob Dey, S/o (L) A. Dey, R/o Majai Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 17 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 216 of 2025 Shri. Atul Das, S/o Shri. B. Das, R/o New Majai Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 18 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 217 of 2025 Shri. Sudhangshu Das, S/o (L) S.C. Das, R/o Dharambasti Bholaganj. East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 19 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 218 of 2025 Shri. Sanjib Das, S/o Shri. K. Das, R/o Chaklabasti Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 20 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 219 of 2025 Shri. Mintu Debnath, S/o Shri. J.Debnath, R/o New Majai Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 21 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 220 of 2025 Shri. Nripesh Dey, S/o (L) N. Dey, R/o Dharambasti Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 22 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 221 of 2025 Shri. Debashish Dey, S/o Shri. B. Dey, R/o Dharambasti Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 23 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 222 of 2025 Shri. Monju Das, S/o (L) R. Das, R/o Dharambasti Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 24 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 223 of 2025 Shri. Abhinash Deb, S/o Shri. Motilal Deb, R/o New Majai Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 25 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 224 0f 2025 Shri. Subroto Das, S/o Shri. S. Das, R/o New Majai Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 26 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 225 of 2025 Shri. Probito Das, S/o Shri. P.C.Das, R/o Chaklabasti Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 27 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 226 of 2025 Shri. Shankar Dey, S/o (L) S.Dey, R/o Dharambasti Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 28 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 227 of 2025 Shri. Ranatlal Dey @ Ratanlal, S/ o Shri. Rabindralal Dey, R/o. New Majai Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 29 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 228 of 2025 Shri. Abhinash Deb, S/o Shri. Motilal Deb, R/o New Majai, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 30 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 229 of 2025 Shri. Milon Kumar Das, S/o Shri. M.Das, R/o Chaklabasti Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 31 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 230 of 2025 Shri. Alok Das, S/o Shri. A. Das, R/o Majaj Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 32 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 231 of 2025 Shri. Amio Das, S/o Shri. Ananto Das, R/o Dharambasti, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 33 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 232 of 2025 Shri. Rahul Roy, S/o (L) N. Roy, R/o Majai Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 34 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 233 of 2025 Shri. Bipul Das, S/o (L) Khuka Das, R/o New Majai, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 35 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 234 of 2025 Shri. Hirok Roy, S/o (L) H.K.Roy, R/o New Majai Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 36 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 235 of 2025 Shri. Sandeep Dey, S/o (L) Sudhangshu Dey, R/o Dharambasti, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 37 In MC[WP(C). No. 236 of 2025 Shri. Himadri Roy, S/o (L) Harikrishna Roy, R/o New Majai, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 38 In MC[WP(C)] No. 237 of 2025 Shri. Nripesh Dey, S/o (L) N. Dey, R/o Dharambasti Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 39 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 238 of 2025 Shri. Pronob Sarkar, S/o Shri Pintu Sarkar, R/o Dharambasti, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 40 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 239 of 2025 Shri. Binayak Roy, S/o Shri. M.R.Roy, R/o New Majai Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 41 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 240 of 2025 Shri. Ramakanta Chanda, S/o (L) R. Chanda, R/o Chaklabasti Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 42 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 241 of 2025 Shri. Dilip Ranjan Dey, S/o (L) Debendro Dey, R/ o New Majai, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioners -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 43 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 242 of 2025 Shri. Ashish Debnath, S/o (L) N. Debnath, R/o Nayabasti Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 44 In MC[WP(C)]. No. 243 of 2025 Shri. Adhir Das, S/o (L) Rojo Das, R/o Chakalbasti Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Petitioner -Versus- 1. The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Represented by the Secretary to the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 2. The Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 3. The Executive Member, I/C Trade, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 4. The Special Officer, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Shillong, Meghalaya. 5. The Dorbar Shnong, Bholaganj, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya, represented by its Rangbah Shnong. 6. The Syiem of Sohra, Sohra Syiemship, Pdengshnong, Cherrapunji, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya – 793108. 7. Acting Syiem, Sohra Syiemship, East Khasi Hills District, Meghalaya. …Respondents 2026:MLHC:999 45 Coram: Hon’ble Mr. Justice H. S. Thangkhiew, Judge Appearance: For the Petitioner/Applicant(s) : Mr. S.Dey, Adv. Mr. J.Suchiang, Adv. For the Respondent(s) : Mr. H.L.Shangreiso, Sr. Adv. with Ms. D.Lyngdoh, Adv. for R 1-4. Mr. R.S.Malngiang, Adv. for R 5. Mr. S.P.Mahanta, Sr. Adv. with Mr. M.Lyngdoh, Adv. for R 7. i) Whether approved for reporting in Yes/No Law journals etc: ii) Whether approved for publication Yes/No in press: JUDGMENT AND ORDER (ORAL) 1. This issue which concerns the renewal of trading licenses of the petitioners in all these connected matters has been pending due to a deadlock with regard to who is to issue the fresh No Objection Certificate (NOC) to the applicants. It is noted that on an earlier occasion, the original NOC was issued by the Syiem of Sohra, and as such, the judgment rendered by this Court had directed accordingly that the NOC be obtained from his office. However, as the matter progressed, there was some confusion with regard 2026:MLHC:999 46 as to whether the NOC was to be obtained from the Sordar of Majai or the Syiem of Sohra. 2. This confusion has now been clarified by the District Council respondents who have issued a Notification dated 11th August, 2026 which is annexed as Annexure-3 to the additional affidavit filed by the District Council respondents, whereby the Executive Committee, KHADC has authorized the Acting Chief, Sohra Syiemship to issue the NOC or any other certificates/documents required by the residents of Majai after proper scrutiny, authentication and due diligence. The said Notification dated 11th August, 2026 is reproduced hereinbelow: “OFFICE OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE KHASI HILLS AUTONOMOUS DISTRICT COUNCIL SHILLONG NOTIFICATION NO.DC.XXVII/Genl/66/2017-2026/191 Dated Shillong the 11th August, 2026. In partial modification to the Notification NO.DC.XXVII/Genl/66/2017-2026/185 dt. 20.5.2026, the Executive Committee, Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council is pleased to authorise the Acting Chief, Sohra Syiemship to issue No Objection Certificate (NOC) or any other certificates/documents required by residents of Majai, only after proper scrutiny, authentication and due diligence on the genuineness of such applications, until further order. Sd/- Under Secretary to the Executive Committee Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council Shillong.” 2026:MLHC:999 47 3. The learned counsel appearing for all the parties submit that in view of this Notification, the matters can be disposed leaving the applicants to approach the Acting Syiem of Sohra Syiemship for appropriate action. 4. Accordingly, these connected matters are disposed of by this common judgment and order allowing the applicants to approach the respondent No. 7 for consideration of their NOCs within four weeks from the date of this judgment and order. Pending the decision of the respondent No. 7 and further action thereon by the respondents No. 1- 4, the trading activities of the applicants shall not be disturbed. 5. As ordered above, these misc. applications stand closed and disposed of. Judge 2026:MLHC:999 Digitally signed by SAMANTHA ANNA LIYA RYNJAH Date: 2026.09.09 18:55:25 IST