Meghalaya has reported the identification of 628 Bangladeshi nationals over the last five years, with 194 individuals deported after legal processes, as disclosed by State Home Minister Prestone Tynsong in an Assembly session. This identification occurred between 2021 and February of the current year, during which the deported individuals completed their sentences and received travel permits from the Bangladesh Embassy.
To combat illegal infiltration, the government has enhanced its anti-infiltration mechanisms, establishing 18 check posts, gates, and customs stations at strategic inter-state and India-Bangladesh border locations. Special squads, working in conjunction with the Labour Department, police, local authorities, and community organizations, are conducting inspections, surprise checks, and patrol missions.
Additionally, eleven district-level task forces have been created to assist in detecting illegal foreign nationals. A state-level committee has been tasked with overseeing the identification and deportation processes. The implementation of the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act, 2016, specifically in East Khasi Hills district, is part of these efforts.
The government has urged citizens and organizations to support the authorities in a lawful manner to prevent harassment of genuine Indian citizens while identifying illegal migrants.
