SHILLONG/ NONGPOH: The Conrad Sangma-led government on Wednesday did not show seriousness in dealing with the Khasi Students’ Union that illegally set up check points in three districts on Tuesday fearing infiltration post publication of the draft NRC list in Assam.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma told reporters that every citizen was concerned about the issue and “KSU did what it thought should (be done) but this is a task for the government.”
“It is not appropriate for any non-governmental agency to involve itself in this process and if they (the members) have anything to add, they should discuss with the government and we will act,” the chief minister said.
The pressure group had set up check gates in West Khasi Hills, Ri Bhoi and East Jaintia Hills to stop illegal immigrants from entering the state. The union claimed on Tuesday that its members identified over 1,000 people who could not prove their citizenship.
It is illegal for any self-styled monitoring group to set up check gates but the present government did not prefer to take action against KSU members with the chief minister making a lenient statement a day after.
However, on Tuesday, the Ri Bhoi district administration removed the KSU’s temporary check gate at 20 Mile and started checking for illegal immigrants at Byrnihat on Wednesday.
Sangma informed that the government has set up check gates and he is personally monitoring the situation with deputy commissioners and SPs.
“We are in touch and I have asked them to take utmost care and they are submitting reports to me. We are doing our part and though the situation is fluid we are alert,” he said.
Ri Bhoi Deputy Commissioner RM Kurbah, in a press communiqué, informed the public and headmen to be alert following the declaration of the NRC draft list in Assam as those who may not be on the final list might take refuge in Meghalaya. Villagers and local heads have been asked to inform the district administration if they found illegal immigrants entering their villages.
