By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Aug 1: The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) has issued a public notification across all Hima and Elaka under its jurisdiction, calling for vigilance in light of a reported night raid in neighbouring Assam that could potentially lead to illegal entry or movement of individuals into various Hima and villages of the Khasi Hills, especially those located near the interstate border.
The notification, issued by the Secretary of the KHADC’s Executive Committee, directed all Hima authorities to instruct their respective Dorbar Shnong and Dorbar Raid to remain alert and monitor for any unauthorised entry of individuals who are not indigenous residents or rightful inhabitants of the area.
The KHADC further instructed that in the event of any such illegal entry being detected, the concerned village authorities must immediately act and report the matter to the competent authorities of the Meghalaya Government for appropriate action.
The directive comes amid growing concern over cross-border movement, particularly in sensitive fringe areas adjoining Assam.
Nongpoh MLA for action against people sheltering illegal immigrants
Meanwhile, condemning attempts by vested groups to shelter illegal immigrants fleeing Assam’s ongoing eviction drive, Nongpoh MLA Mayralborn Syiem has called for stringent action against those who provide protection, patronage, or shelter to undocumented settlers.
He warned that such actions not only violate the law but also pose a direct threat to the social stability of the state.
The legislator expressed grave concern over reports of suspected illegal immigrants entering Meghalaya through its porous border with Assam. He highlighted that the situation had instilled fear among residents of border areas, particularly in Ri-Bhoi district. The recent eviction drive in Assam, targeting alleged Bangladeshi settlers, has sparked apprehensions that displaced individuals may attempt to infiltrate into Meghalaya.
Syiem stated that he had raised the issue with the district administration and brought it to the attention of the state government.
He then stressed the urgent need for a strong and coordinated mechanism to monitor and control any influx resulting from developments in the neighbouring state.
According to the MLA, the priority must be to ensure that such migration does not disturb Meghalaya’s peace and unity.
Urging traditional institutions and local bodies to remain alert, Syiem appealed to all Dorbar Shnongs, Dorbar Raids, Seng Samla, Seng Longkmie, Seng Kynthei and civil society organisations to work in coordination with the authorities.
He said that vigilance must be maintained across all vulnerable areas, especially those along the inter-state border, to prevent any illegal movement or settlement.
He also expressed dismay over recent incidents reported by NGOs and local village councils, which indicated attempted intrusions.
While stating that Meghalaya has always been a peaceful state, he underlined the need to preserve that environment through collective responsibility and prompt action.
Referring to earlier statements by the Border Security Force (BSF) highlighting concerns over infiltration from Bangladesh, Syiem pointed to clear lapses in border security.
He remarked that the ability of foreign nationals to sneak in suggests facilitation and sheltering by certain individuals, which, he said, must be identified and stopped immediately.
The Nongpoh MLA has, meanwhile, reiterated his commitment to safeguarding Ri-Bhoi district and the state at large from illegal migration.
He urged the public and all stakeholders to protect Meghalaya’s traditional values and communal harmony, stating that the beauty and peace of the land must be preserved for future generations.