By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Sep 24: Amid concerns over illegal influx, newly-inducted Labour Minister Methodius Dkhar has ordered an extensive review of the Labour Department and its policies.
He said necessary amendments will be made along with structural changes to strengthen the department and ensure tighter safeguards against unchecked entry of migrant workers.
The minister stressed that the success of the department cannot depend on an individual but it requires the active involvement of officers and all stakeholders. He indicated that the review would begin with inclusive discussions, aimed at building a system capable of protecting the interests of locals as well as labourers.
Dkhar said policies would be examined to identify gaps, improve existing measures and introduce new amendments, if required.
He pointed out that interstate labour issues, flagged repeatedly in the past, will form a critical part of the review. The priority is to protect the rights of the state’s population while ensuring that legitimate work is not hampered, he said.
Earlier data from the Labour Department showed that as of 2024, a total of 93,283 migrant workers registered themselves under its official process launched in 2021 to ensure security and legal accountability.
East Khasi Hills topped the chart with 41,242 registrations, followed by East Jaintia Hills with 29,932. Ri Bhoi accounted for 10,138, while other districts reported lower numbers: 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 updated figures will be made available after the minister’s review.
Meanwhile, the Hynniewtrep National Youth Front expressed serious concern over the eviction drive in Assam, cautioning that it could affect Meghalaya, especially in the border areas such as Khanduli, Saphai, and Ratacherra.
The organisation warned that if the government failed to take decisive steps, it would have no choice but to establish checkpoints in these areas. It called upon local authorities and citizens to work collectively to stop the illegal entry of people from Assam and other regions.
