Guwahati: The Meghalaya High Court has raised concerns over discrepancies in a state transport report on mineral movement, observing that the data presented appeared inconsistent and sought detailed affidavits from authorities.

The issue arose in PIL No. 4 of 2026, where a status report filed by the state was taken on record. The report stated that between April 2025 and February 2026, a total of 2,030 vehicles transported 25,902 metric tonnes of minor minerals, with an average movement of fewer than seven vehicles per day through the Jaintia Hills Territorial Division.

However, the Bench noted that this claim did not align with a chart annexed to the same report. When questioned, the Advocate General sought time to obtain instructions. The court observed that the statement was "completely contrary" to the annexed data and indicated that there appeared to be an attempt to mislead the court.

The order also pointed to enforcement gaps. While some vehicles were found violating provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act and were fined, there was no indication of any prosecution between April 22 and April 25, 2026. The court noted the absence of data indicating whether the offenders were first-time or repeat violators.

Authorities have been directed to clarify whether a centralised database exists to track registered vehicles, penalties and repeat offences. Affidavits from the concerned departments are to be filed by May 4.

A separate status report submitted by border authorities stated that their primary responsibility is to provide security and that they are not empowered to check documents such as licences, pollution certificates or vehicle fitness.