SHILLONG: Former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Dr. Mukul Sangma has accused the Meghalaya government of misleading citizens and betraying public trust regarding the implementation of the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (MRSSA) 2016.
Dr. Sangma stressed that MRSSA 2016 was passed as a vital interim measure while awaiting Central approval for the extension of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873.
Recalling the widespread agitation for ILP before 2016, Dr. Sangma said his administration consulted extensively with civil society and stakeholders, ultimately drafting a robust legal framework to control unregulated influx under the state’s constitutional powers.
This led to civil society groups suspending their protests and cooperating in setting up entry/exit points and facilitation centers.
Dr. Sangma alleged that the current government has deliberately diluted and undermined the Act’s original intent, sparking renewed agitation.
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He reiterated that MRSSA was designed as a statutory tool against illegal immigration, empowering traditional institutions—like the Rangbah Shnong—through mandatory tenant verification.
He pointed out that the previous administration had created 39 labor inspector posts and established District Task Forces to oversee migrant workers, but these mechanisms are now inactive.
Refuting claims of legal hurdles under central laws, Dr. Sangma asserted that the MRSSA had passed judicial scrutiny.
He also clarified that the High Court’s ruling on the Umling facilitation center only required a pause until guidelines were properly framed, a responsibility of the state government.
Dr. Sangma concluded that the government’s failure to frame operational rules, despite assurances in the Assembly, indicates a deliberate attempt to avoid enforcing the Act and constitutes a breach of public trust.
(4FrontMedia news)
