SHILLONG: The Meghalaya government has clarified that the development of a food court at Umling, along the Assam-Meghalaya border, is an initiative by the Tourism Department to enhance commuter amenities and does not represent an abandonment of plans to establish a full-fledged facilitation centre under the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (MRSSA), 2016.
Officials emphasized that expanding the border checking facility is contingent on the pending approval of the MRSSA amendment, currently under active review by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
Addressing concerns about the project’s intent, Deputy Chief Minister in charge of Home (Police) Prestone Tynsong explained that the roadside facility is designed to offer basic conveniences for travellers during transit verification procedures.
He reiterated that the Tourism Department’s project allows commuters to park, eat, and relax at the site during routine checking, and that the broader strategy to construct a comprehensive facilitation centre at Umling remains very much in place.
Tynsong detailed the administrative journey of the MRSSA amendment bill, noting that after passage by the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, it was sent to the Governor and then referred to the MHA for consultation and recommendations.
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The MHA returned the document with specific observations, and the file was routed back to the state government.
Tynsong affirmed that official dialogue with the MHA is ongoing and expressed optimism that the amendment will receive final clearance soon.
Despite the procedural delay, the Deputy Chief Minister stressed that the original MRSSA, 2016, remains in force across the state through District Task Forces chaired by Deputy Commissioners.
Using East Khasi Hills as an example, Tynsong highlighted that a dedicated District Task Force has been actively functioning for over three years, coordinating with traditional heads, local stakeholders, and the police.
Reaffirming the state’s roadmap for border security and influx management, Tynsong stated that all districts have been instructed to maintain and strengthen District Task Forces.
Once the amendment receives central approval, the government plans to reinforce the Umling facilitation centre with enhanced infrastructure and comprehensive operational resources.
(4FrontMedia news)
