SHILLONG, JUN 30: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) Laban Circle has asked the East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner to act against organisers of last week’s Muharram procession, saying it ran beyond the permitted time and caused safety and traffic problems for residents.
In a letter to the DC, KSU Laban Circle said it wanted to “express its concern regarding the complaints received against the Muharram procession held at Laban on 26th June, 2026 (Friday).”
“It has been reported that the procession disturbed the peace and tranquillity of the area, disrupted the flow of traffic, and raised safety concerns for passers-by,” wrote president Jason Laloo and general secretary Shining Star Chyne.
The Union said processions took place on June 25 from Red Cross, Laban to St. John area, Lower Lumparing, and back, and on June 26 from Red Cross, Laban towards Civil Hospital Junction, taking the highway route through Oxford Hill, K.O.R., Last Stop, and Rhino Point, before returning.
“These processions were supposed to conclude by 9:30 PM, in accordance with the order issued by the Office of the Deputy Commissioner. However, they continued until 11:00 PM, thereby directly violating the order of the District Administration,” the letter stated.
KSU said students in the Dorbars of Laban, K.O.R., and Lower Lumparing had complained about “loud drumming and chanting during the late hours of the procession, which adversely affected their preparation for their respective mid-term examinations.”
The Union also objected to “street performances involving swords and fire displays” by the procession, which it said was attended by hundreds.
“Such activities are extremely dangerous, and reports indicate that passers-by were struck by flying fire sparks, which is a matter of grave concern,” the letter said.
According to KSU, the procession “caused significant disruption to the flow of traffic, particularly along the narrow streets of the above-mentioned Dorbars.”
It added that “the procession came to a halt approximately every 50 to 80 metres to perform sword demonstrations and fire dances, causing severe inconvenience and obstructing emergency services, including ambulances, particularly along the highway route.”
Stating that it “respects every religion and every individual’s right to profess and practise their faith,” the Union maintained it “cannot condone any activity that directly or indirectly affects the peace, tranquillity, safety, and security of the residents as a whole.”
The KSU urged the District Administration to “take appropriate action against the organisers of the procession so that such inconveniences are not repeated in the future and that all public processions are conducted strictly in accordance with the law and established guidelines.”
