SHILLONG, Aug 6: Labour Minister Shakliar Warjri on Wednesday said the Labour Department is actively watching the situation concerning migrant labourers across Meghalaya and it will soon conduct a formal review of inspection activities in all districts.
“If you remember, the last time we instructed all our labour inspectors to conduct a thorough check in all districts. I am yet to review it but I am sure they are on the job. I will hold a review meeting and give you a further explanation,” Warjri told reporters.
He said departmental vigilance has been activated. “There is a sense of alertness. Monitoring is also on. Based on the findings, we will review and take a call,” he stated.
On whether the eviction drives in Assam triggered fresh concerns in Meghalaya, Warjri replied, “Yes, there is a concern. Let me sit with my officials. I will share the required information.”
In recent months, pressure groups across the state took it upon themselves to carry out surprise checks and evict labourers found without valid documentation. Many of those forced to leave were reportedly undocumented Bangladeshi nationals.
The Assam government’s intensified eviction drives against suspected illegal settlers raised public concern about influx into Meghalaya.
Meanwhile, the Labour Department has revealed that as of 2024, a total of 93,283 migrant workers registered themselves in the state under its official process launched in 2021 — an initiative aimed at ensuring both security and legal accountability for the workforce.
According to the department, East Khasi Hills recorded the highest number of registered migrant workers with 41,242, followed by East Jaintia Hills with 29,932. Other districts reported the following numbers: Ri Bhoi – 10,138, West Khasi Hills – 3,820, West Jaintia Hills – 3,575, South West Khasi Hills – 2,858, West Garo Hills – 782, North Garo Hills – 372, South Garo Hills – 326, East Garo Hills – 183, and South West Garo Hills – 55.
Officials maintained that the registration process is ongoing, and further data will be made public following the review by the Minister.
Meanwhile, the Hynniewtrep National Youth Front has expressed concern over the mass eviction drive by the Assam government, saying it could have serious implications for Meghalaya, particularly in border areas like Khanduli, Saphai, and Ratacherra.
The HNYF warned that if the government fails to act decisively, it will have to set up checkpoints in these areas.
The organisation urged local authorities and the public to work together to prevent illegal entry of people from Assam and other places.
