NONGPOH, July 31: Taking serious note of the potential threat posed by the sudden influx of outsiders expelled from Assam, a meeting was convened with the village headmen under the Synjuk Ki Rangbah Shnong Byrnihat Area to discuss the issue by Jirang MLA Sosthenes Sohtun, who termed the matter of serious concern for the residents of border villages in the region.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, Sohtun expressed grave concern over the matter, stating that this was not merely an issue that worried him as a public representative, but one that was equally alarming for the villagers themselves, particularly as the affected villages lie along the sensitive inter-state border with Assam.
He pointed out that following eviction drives conducted by the Assam government to remove illegal settlers from government land, there is a high possibility that some of those expelled may attempt to cross into Meghalaya, especially targeting border areas such as Byrnihat and other adjacent localities, to seek shelter or employment.
Urging village leaders to remain vigilant, Sohtun appealed to them to monitor their respective jurisdictions closely to ensure that outsiders — who may enter as daily wage labourers, tenants, or even through social ties — do not find opportunities to settle in the area, as this could pose long-term security risks for the entire region.
Sohtun stressed the importance of collective responsibility, calling upon local leaders to exercise their authority judiciously and to engage with house owners who rent out properties, urging them to cooperate with village authorities in maintaining social harmony and public safety.
