SHILLONG, Aug 3: Cabinet Minister and NPP leader Rakkam A Sangma has urged the district administration, police, traditional bodies, and local authorities to remain united and alert to prevent illegal settlers from gaining ground in Meghalaya.
Sangma emphasised the importance of strong grassroots governance in countering such attempts, stating that if the Dorbar Shnongs and Nokmas are strong and systematic, no one can come and stay here illegally.
Despite his constituency (Rongara-Siju) not being directly connected to Assam, Sangma acknowledged that fears about influx not only concerns his constituency but the entire state.
He, however, pointed to existing legal protections, stating that there is no room for illegal immigrants to come and settle in Meghalaya which is protected under the Sixth Schedule.
It may be mentioned that several pressure groups have already taken it upon themselves to check vehicles entering from Assam, amid heightened apprehension over illegal movement across the border following the spate of eviction drives in the neighbouring state.
Wary of Assam’s eviction drive, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has instructed the heads of all districts, especially those bordering Assam, to remain vigilant and report any cross-border movement immediately.
He stated that the government has been engaging continuously with the DCs to ensure that they, in turn, are coordinating with block-level officials, police personnel, village defence parties, traditional heads, and the NGOs.
