The Meghalaya High Court has taken note of the State government’s compliance with its earlier directions on banning plastic carry bags below 120 microns in thickness, expressing satisfaction with the preliminary steps taken across 11 out of the State’s 12 districts.

A Division Bench of Chief Justice I.P. Mukerji and Justice W. Diengdoh was hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL No. 7/2024) filed by Phuyosa Yobin, which seeks a comprehensive ban on single-use plastics (SUP) in Meghalaya.

During the hearing on June 25, the State informed the Court that prohibitory orders have been issued in 11 districts banning the sale and use of plastic carry bags below the prescribed 120-micron thickness. East Jaintia Hills, however, remains an exception.

The Court had earlier, on August 16, 2024, directed the State to take concrete steps toward banning harmful plastic products, observing that the negative impact of plastic far outweighed its convenience. In a follow-up order dated May 14, 2025, the Court noted that little action had been taken outside East Khasi Hills and directed the government to crack down on the clandestine manufacture and distribution of sub-standard plastic materials.

At the latest hearing, the Bench remarked:

“We are quite satisfied with the steps taken. We note that the District Magistrate, East Khasi Hills District had issued a prohibitory order banning the sale and use of plastic carry bags of less than 120 microns from June 2025. Similar orders have been issued in other districts covered by the report.”

It also took note of awareness drives and monitoring measures being initiated by the authorities but emphasized that implementation is still in its early phase.

The Court directed that, strict enforcement of the prohibitory orders must be ensured. Comprehensive action must follow the Court’s orders dated August 16, 2024, and May 14, 2025. A compliance report from East Jaintia Hills must be filed before the next hearing. A supplementary action taken report must be submitted by August 12, 2025, the next date of hearing.