Northeast Desk, 9th August: The Meghalaya High Court has scheduled further hearings on August 14 concerning the ban imposed on Hindu devotees offering prayers at the Mawjymbuin Cave in Mawsynram. The decision follows earlier proceedings where the court sought to mediate between the Hindu organization ‘Yatra’ and the Dorbar Shnong of Mawsynram, aiming for a possible settlement.
On August 7, the High Court had summoned the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police of East Khasi Hills, along with members of the Dorbar Shnong, to address the issue. The court’s involvement comes after a controversial ban by the Mawsynram Dorbar Shnong, preventing Hindu worshippers from praying at the cave, which is revered for its natural stone formation believed to represent a ‘Shiva Linga.’
This ban has sparked tensions, particularly with the Assam-based Hindu organization Kutumba Surakshya Parishad (KSP), which has threatened to initiate a road blockade against Meghalaya in protest. During an August 6 press conference at the Guwahati Press Club, KSP president Satya Ranjan Borah demanded an explanation from the Meghalaya state authorities. He warned of potential road blockades at key entry points like Jorabat in Guwahati and Paikan in Goalpara if the ban is not lifted.
The ongoing dispute underscores the sensitive nature of religious practices in the region, with the High Court now playing a crucial role in seeking a resolution.