Former Meghalaya Cabinet minister Paul Lyngdoh has warned the government about the potential risks associated with railway projects in the Khasi and Jaintia Hills, particularly regarding illegal immigration. He highlighted the necessity of implementing adequate safety measures to alleviate concerns raised by the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) before proceeding with any railway initiatives, labeling the issue as “long-standing and highly sensitive.”
Lyngdoh expressed frustration over the lack of clarity from the central government regarding the much-discussed Inner Line Permit (ILP) for the state, noting that it is disappointing that a vital resolution from the state Assembly remains unaddressed after several years. He emphasized that, despite the delays in the ILP’s implementation, there is an opportunity to enhance the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (MRSSA) by revisiting its provisions and empowering it with stronger measures to effectively combat illegal immigration.
He argued that the MRSSA could be crucial in addressing the growing immigration challenges if it receives adequate authority. Additionally, the KSU recently reiterated its apprehensions regarding the ambiguity surrounding the ILP’s implementation, which has remained unresolved nearly six years post the Assembly resolution, further underscoring the urgency for governmental action in this regard.
