Shillong: The Meghalaya High Court has issued a strong directive to state authorities, demanding the expedited approval of new crematoriums within a strict four-week timeframe.
This order comes as a response to a critical shortage of cremation facilities across the state, a matter brought before the court through Public Interest Litigation (PIL No. 10/2023).
The bench, comprising Chief Justice IP Mukerji and Justice W Diengdoh, delivered this decisive instruction during proceedings held on April 8, 2025.
The core of the PIL highlighted significant inadequacies in Meghalaya’s cremation infrastructure, particularly noting the reluctance of the Khasi-Jaintia communities and Hindu residents, both of whom practice cremation, to utilize shared facilities.
Court documents explicitly stated, “The number of crematoria in a substantial area of the State is small compared to the number of dead bodies to be disposed of and often the distance between two crematoria is very large,” underscoring the severity of the issue.
While acknowledging the state government’s plans for the construction of electric hybrid crematoria in key locations such as New Shillong Township (at a cost of Rs 5.53 crore), Tura (Rs 4.69 crore), Jowai (Rs 5.16 crore), and Nongpoh (Rs 4.9 crore), the High Court bench expressed considerable concern regarding the ambiguity of the project timelines.
Chief Justice Mukerji and Justice Diengdoh pointed out that “it is clear that the date from which these crematoria will be operational is very very uncertain,” noting that despite securing administrative approvals, crucial clearances from bodies like the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board are still pending.
In an immediate effort to alleviate the pressing situation, the court has appointed Mr. N. Syngkon, the Amicus Curiae, to play a pivotal role in fostering dialogue and exploring the possibility of shared use of existing crematoriums.
The court mandated, “The Amicus Curiae shall hold meetings with the District Magistrates and representatives of the above communities so that they are persuaded to share crematoria on such terms as may be set by the District Magistrates,” emphasizing the urgency of finding interim solutions.
The state government, represented by Additional Advocate General Mr. K. Khan, presented a report dated March 27, 2025, detailing both proposed and completed crematorium projects. The court did take note of the completion of eco-friendly crematorium projects for the Seng Khasi community in several locations, including Syllei-Iawkein, Nongstoin, Khlieh Tyrshi village in Jowai, and Jhalupara in Shillong.
Looking ahead, Justice Diengdoh and Chief Justice Mukerji have directed the state government to submit a comprehensive progress report on the new crematorium projects before the next hearing, which is scheduled for May 8, 2025. On this date, both the government and the Amicus Curiae are expected to provide detailed updates on the actions taken in response to the court’s directives.
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