Meghalaya High Court Says Khasi Religious Rituals Must Be Performed Only By Followers Of Niam Khasi Faith

The Meghalaya High Court has observed that only members who continue to follow the indigenous Niam Khasi faith should perform the traditional “Leh Niam Raid Mylliem” religious ceremonies conducted by the 5 Kur 11 Kur of Hima Mylliem.

The case was filed after concerns were raised that the Myntris responsible for conducting the annual rituals had converted to Christianity. The petitioners argued that persons who no longer follow the Niam Khasi faith could not perform ceremonies that are deeply connected to Khasi religious traditions and customs.

Justice H.S. Thangkhiew noted that the issue involved sensitive religious sentiments and the need to preserve the sanctity of indigenous rituals. The Court observed that the apprehension among followers of the Niam Khasi faith was that participation of converts in the ceremonies could affect the religious significance attached to the rituals.

Referring to a similar arrangement made in 2025, the Court suggested that the 5 Kur 11 Kur nominate members from their clans who had not converted to other religions and who still profess the Niam Khasi faith to perform the ceremonies in consultation with the Lyngdoh Raid Mylliem.

The Court clarified that the directions were passed to ensure peaceful conduct of the rituals and avoid any untoward situation. It later left the final decision regarding the list of persons performing the rituals to the wisdom of the Kur and the Lyngdoh Raid Mylliem.