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**Shillong, Meghalaya:** In a significant move to regulate the growing number of alcohol outlets in the Khasi Hills, the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) has barred traditional village authorities from issuing No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for new wine stores, bonded warehouses, and alcohol manufacturing units.

The decision was taken during an Executive Committee meeting on November 19, 2025, and notified shortly thereafter, coming into immediate effect. The order specifically targets Rangbah Shnong, Sordar Shnong, Matabor, Myntri Shnong, and Dorbar Shnongs — the traditional village-level bodies responsible for local governance and land-related approvals in the Khasi Hills.

### Scope of the Ban
Under the new directive, these village authorities can no longer issue NOCs for:
– New Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) retail outlets, commonly known as wine stores.
– Bonded warehouses for alcohol storage.
– Factories or units involved in the production of alcoholic beverages.
– Sale of alcoholic beverages within departmental stores or other general shops.

The restriction aims to curb the unchecked proliferation of alcohol-selling establishments across the region.

### Limited Exception for Unanimous Village Decisions
The KHADC has, however, provided a narrow exception. A village Dorbar Shnong may issue an NOC only if it adopts a **unanimous resolution** with the full participation and knowledge of all residents. This measure addresses previous concerns where approvals were often granted by smaller executive committees without broader village consultation.

### Reasons Behind the Move
The VPP-led KHADC cited serious concerns over the rapid increase in alcohol outlets, which it believes is adversely affecting families, households, and the overall social fabric of Khasi society. Council leaders have highlighted rising issues related to alcohol consumption and its impact on community well-being.

This regulatory step falls within the autonomous powers of the KHADC, which oversees matters related to land, traditional institutions, and certain trades in the Sixth Schedule areas of Meghalaya. The order does not affect existing licensed outlets but strictly controls the establishment of new ones.

The directive will remain in force until further notice. Local residents and business owners have been advised to refer to official KHADC notifications for any updates or clarifications regarding implementation.

This decision reflects a broader effort by the autonomous council to balance economic activities with social responsibility in the Khasi Hills region.