Compulsory registration of non-residents entering state on cards
SHILLONG, July 10: In a significant decision, the Meghalaya government is set to implement what is effectively a virtual Inner Line Permit (ILP) system for tourists and visitors entering the state. The new compulsory registration mechanism will require verification of antecedents, intentions and proper documentation of all outsiders, similar to the ILP regime followed in Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram and Manipur.
Tourism Minister Timothy D. Shira said the registration process will function almost like an ILP. He said the registration process will be rolled out through dedicated centres across the state, beginning with Umling in Ri-Bhoi.
The minister explained that the move is intended to keep proper records of visitors, especially as large numbers of people visit the state. Similar tourist registration centres are planned in other parts of Meghalaya, including in Garo Hills, to ensure uniform implementation of the system.
Officials believe the new registration mechanism will help improve tracking of visitors, strengthen safety measures and allow the government to maintain better oversight on movement into the state. The system is also expected to provide a structured and transparent process for tourists while giving the administration real-time data on arrivals.
Food court controversy
Meanwhile, explaining the food court move, the Tourism minister said the Umling facility will have two separate rooms exclusively for tourist registration. Since the process is expected to take some time, the government plans to provide restaurants at the site so that visitors can wait comfortably while their details are being verified and processed.
Work on the Umling food court has, however, been stalled by the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), which has served a virtual stop-work notice and demanded that the site be developed strictly as a facilitation and surveillance centre rather than a commercial establishment.
The Ri-Bhoi Deputy Commissioner has held discussions with the KSU, urging the student body not to obstruct the work.
The Umling site has a chequered history. The prefab structure, constructed at a cost of Rs 2.7 crore, was inaugurated in 2020 as a high-profile facilitation centre-cum-entry point and as a key checkpoint for monitoring movement into the state.
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the centre played a crucial role as a testing facility for all persons entering Meghalaya through Jorabat and Byrnihat. It was later handed back to the district administration but ran into legal hurdles when the judiciary ordered its closure following a petition. The government has since applied for modification of the court’s observations.
