Shri Firstbornson Lyngkhoi vs The State of Meghalaya & Ors.

Heard learned counsel for the parties.

By this appeal, the appellant essentially seeks modification and alteration of the judgment and order dated 9^th April, 2026, passed by the learned Single Judge in WP (C) No. 166 of 2025, insofar as it awards costs of ₹50,000/- only to the appellant.

According to the learned counsel for the appellant, the appellant should have been awarded more costs, having regard to the peculiar facts.

Mr. Kumar, learned Advocate General submits that costs as directed have been paid to the appellant. Learned counsel appearing for the respondent Nos.6 to 13, on instructions also states that the said respondents have paid ₹5000/- each to the appellant, as directed by the learned Single Judge. He states that the said payment has been made online to the appellant.

Payment of costs to the appellant (original petitioner) was completely a discretionary relief and as such, there is hardly any scope for interference in the same. The appellant in appeal cannot seek enhancement of costs.

Having perused the judgment and order passed by the learned Single Judge and the circumstances in which the appellant was awarded costs, we do not understand how the appellant by filing the aforesaid appeal can seek enhancement of costs. Thus, we find no reason to entertain the appeal and as such, dismiss the appeal.