Archive · 29 Jun 2025
Meghalaya HC Admitted Plea on Khasi Tribe Certificates
A court in Meghalaya is looking into why some people aren't getting tribal certificates.
These certificates are for the Khasi people, and some aren't getting them if they use their father's or husband's last name.
A group called SRT is fighting this.
The court wants to know why changing a last name would stop someone from getting the certificate.
The government previously said this was okay, but then changed its mind.
The court wants the government to explain its position.
Meghalaya High Court admitted a PIL regarding ST certificate denials for Khasis using paternal surnames.
The petition was filed by Syngkhong Rympei Thymmai (SRT), a society based in Shillong.
The issue concerns the denial of ST certificates to individuals who adopt their father's or husband's surnames.
The court questioned how surname choice could affect ST certificate eligibility.
The court directed the District Council Affairs Department to report on its stance.
- Who
- The Syngkhong Rympei Thymmai (SRT) filed the petition on behalf of Khasi individuals.
- What
- A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) regarding denial of Scheduled Tribe (ST) certificates.
- When
- The PIL was admitted recently.
- Where
- Meghalaya High Court in Shillong.
- Why
- To address the denial of ST certificates to Khasi individuals who adopt paternal or husband's surnames.
Government Advisory
Khasi Community
ST Certificate Eligibility
Government Advisory
Initial advisory clarified surname choice wouldn't affect eligibility for ST certificates.
Khasi Community
The advisory was later withdrawn.
- Court
- Meghalaya High Court
- Petitioner
- Syngkhong Rympei Thymmai (SRT)
- Issue
- Denial of ST certificates
- Affected Group
- Khasi individuals
- Relevant Act
- Khasi Social Custom of Lineage Act, 1997