SHILLONG: Working President of the NPP Meghalaya State, Hamletson Dohling, expressed serious concern over the continued influx of outsiders into Meghalaya, particularly in the wake of the ongoing unrest in neighbouring Bangladesh, describing the issue as a complex and recurring challenge faced by the state and the entire North East.
Speaking to reporters, Dohling said the situation poses a potential threat to Meghalaya and the wider North Eastern region.
He credited organisations like the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) for consistently raising the issue since 1979 and acknowledged the role played by various pressure groups in safeguarding indigenous interests. He noted that earlier apprehensions regarding unchecked influx are now increasingly becoming a reality.
Dohling informed that the state government has been engaging with the issue on a regular basis and recently, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, along with Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, met Union Home Minister Amit Shah to press for the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) in Meghalaya.
He said the Government of India must respond decisively to the state’s demand and, even if ILP is not introduced, enact strong legal safeguards to prevent illegal entry into the state. Warning about the demographic vulnerability of indigenous communities, he said unchecked migration could push Meghalaya towards a situation similar to that witnessed in states like Tripura and Assam.
Stating that the NPP views the matter with utmost seriousness, Dohling urged the Centre to make its position clear on the demand for ILP. He also described recent developments in Bangladesh as alarming, citing statements suggesting territorial claims over the North East, and stressed that such remarks should not be taken lightly by the Union government.
On border security, Dohling said that while the BSF and state police are performing their respective duties, the Centre must adopt a more vigilant and proactive approach in view of the evolving situation across the international border. He further called for strong laws, effective border management, and coordination with traditional institutions including village authorities to address the issue effectively.
He emphasized the need for preparedness, noting that the future course of events remains uncertain.
