By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: Issuing birth certificates to immigrants in the State without verifying their documents and identity proof was unearthed by the FKJGP at Ichanmati CHC in Shella on Saturday even as they threatened to take action if nothing is done in this regard by the authority.
During an inspection carried out by the FKJGP Southern Riwar Zone (Shella Area) on Saturday at Ichanmati CHC which is being run by a local NGO, Citizen Foundation, it was found that birth certificates were being given to many immigrants who failed to produce their documents to substantiate their identity.
Alleging one Dr. M Kar of this CHC of playing a major role in issuing certificates to these immigrants believed to be Bangladeshis, the FKJGP president Bantyngshain Ryngnga warned Dr Kar of the Citizen Foundation to abstain from repeating such acts failing of which the federation will be forced to take some other steps.
Moreover, Ryngnga also mentioned that while inspecting the register maintained by the CHC, the federation found that the SDO of Sohra Civil Sub Division, Cyril Diengdoh had recently visited the CHC and directed the authorities of the CHC to only issue birth certificates to those who are eligible.
“As a tribal officer, we think he should have at least thought of the consequences thereafter if birth certificates are being issued rampantly to everyone who seeks for it”, the FKJGP president said adding that it is the SDO’s duty to examine the current scenario of the border areas to prevent infiltration of Bangladeshis into the State.
The FKJGP also stated that if the same continues to take place, the federation will organise a meeting along with the traditional heads to discuss and decide on various steps to deal with this matter.
They have also sought the support of the traditional heads right from the Syiem of Hima Sohra, MLAs, MDCs as well as the general people who are residents of the State to unite and protect the laws of the lands.