Shillong: The Meghalaya High Court has directed the state government to ensure comprehensive implementation of its plastic ban across all 11 districts, stressing the need for intensified action beyond initial steps already taken. The directive came during a hearing on Tuesday, where Chief Justice IP Mukerji and Justice W Diengdoh reviewed the latest compliance report in a public interest litigation that has been underway since August 2024.
The court expressed satisfaction with the early enforcement measures, particularly in East Khasi Hills and South Garo Hills, where district magistrates have issued prohibitory orders banning the use of plastic carry bags below 120 microns. However, the bench emphasised that efforts remain in their nascent stages in many regions and must be expanded swiftly to achieve meaningful impact.
The case, originally admitted by former Chief Justice S. Vaidyanathan, arose from concerns over the long-term environmental damage caused by plastic. The previous bench had highlighted the necessity of a complete ban due to plastic’s adverse effects, despite its widespread use over decades.
The current compliance report, submitted by the state counsel in response to the court’s May 14 directive, outlines measures taken in 10 out of 11 districts. East Jaintia Hills was the sole district yet to submit its implementation update. The court has now ordered the concerned authorities from East Jaintia Hills to file their compliance report before the next hearing on August 12, 2025.
Among the actions reported are extensive awareness campaigns focused on plastic’s health and environmental hazards, regular inspections to detect violations, and enforcement of penalties against those flouting the ban. The court reiterated that all forms of single-use plastic items under 120 microns—whether manufactured, imported, sold, or used—are strictly prohibited under the ban.
The High Court further underlined that prohibitory orders issued by district magistrates must be strictly enforced and called for a supplementary action report to be submitted at the next hearing. The latest review reflects the judiciary’s sustained push for environmental accountability and highlights the growing urgency around plastic pollution in Meghalaya.