Jemino Mawthoh suggests ‘local solution’ for ‘local problem’
SHILLONG, July 28: The UDP has pitched for a “local solution” to the “local problem” of influx and suggested that the state government should come up with a mechanism by involving the traditional institutions of the state like the Dorbar Shnong to counter the problem while it waits for the Centre’s nod to the implementation of the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (MRSSA) and the Inner Line Permit (ILP).
UDP general secretary Jemino Mawthoh made these suggestions while talking about the growing instances of pressure groups taking things into their hands following the silence of the Centre on the implementation of the ILP and the MRSAA.
This has resulted in an exodus of migrant workers which has severely affects progress of key infrastructure projects.
“If we talk about evolving a mechanism to check illegal immigrants, it is a contentious issue and is being demanded by many people in Meghalaya. The government also had cleared the path for MRSSA and ILP implementation by passing a resolution in the Assembly,” Mawthoh said.
He made it clear that he was not suggesting that the government was sitting idle since several efforts were made to implement ILP and MRSSA.
“But the response has not been very forthcoming; it is neither here nor there and if you are left in the dark, there will be pressure from different groups.”
Reminding that traditional institutions are already in place and have always extended their support by playing significant roles during any crisis like the COVID pandemic, Mawthoh said, “Now while we wait for MRSSA or ILP to be implemented, why we cannot start the process of involving the traditional institutions who are major stakeholders in the state.”
“We can come up some kind of mechanism to allow the Dorbar Shnongs to monitor the entry of people into the state. The Dorbars have been doing a wonderful job. Let us do it properly by delegating power to them so that it will neither be harassment nor discrimination. A local solution is required for local problems,” he suggested.
The UDP general secretary went on to say that the indigenous people are the “owners” of the state and they should stake claim to the ownership but it should not be discriminatory towards other communities.
“If ILP has not been forthcoming and MRSSA is stuck, let us find alternative ways in which we allow the local traditional bodies to address the problem of influx at the grassroots level,” he said.
Citing the case of the Nongrim Hills Dorbar Shnong, where he is an adviser, Mawthoh said, “The Dorbar registers all the names in the locality, be it owners or tenants. Everyone is registered and we know exactly who is coming in or going out. What we need is better coordination with the district administration and enforcing agencies. Let us start the process while we wait for the ILP and MRSSA to be implemented.”