SHILLONG, AUG 13: The Meghalaya High Court on Thursday expressed displeasure over the alleged failure to implement its order reinstating Shri Ainam Manik Syiem as Syiem of Mylliem, and asked the state to report compliance by the end of the day.
Hearing a contempt petition, Justice HS Thangkhiew was told that despite the Court’s August 11 judgment quashing the appointment of respondent No. 4 as Acting Syiem, charge had not been handed over.
Petitioner’s counsel L Khyriem submitted that the Court had directed the “forthwith reinstatement of the petitioner/Syiem as the Syiem of Mylliem” and that the appointment of respondent No. 4 be “set aside and quashed.”
“Inspite of these categorical directions, the respondent No. 4 has refused to hand over charge and vacate the office… The keys of the chamber of the office are also in his custody,” Khyriem said.
Senior Counsel HL Shangreiso, for respondents 1-3, sought time to verify the allegations and did not dispute that no reinstatement order had been issued. Notice was also ordered to respondent No. 4.
The Court said the August 11 order left no scope for confusion.
“It is clear that the respondent No. 4’s appointment is quashed and he is no longer the Acting Syiem. In compliance of the order of this Court, he should have vacated the office immediately and handed over charge,” Justice Thangkhiew observed.
Calling the lapse unfortunate, the Court warned of contempt action.
“It is unfortunate to note that the majesty and authority of the Court is being questioned, in such a manner. To prevent any further necessary action, the learned Senior counsel is to obtain instructions during the course of the day itself as to whether the respondent No. 4 has handed over charge, failing which contempt will be drawn up,” the bench said.
The case will be taken up again on August 17, 2026.
