Northeast Desk, 8th August: The Meghalaya government has temporarily suspended business operations at the border haats along the international border with Bangladesh due to the volatile situation in that country, officials announced on Thursday. The decision was made following intelligence inputs from the Border Security Force (BSF) and state police, indicating a high likelihood of cross-border movements by Bangladesh nationals, outlawed militant groups, smugglers, and other unauthorized activities if the border haats were reopened.
Currently, two border haats are operational: one at Balat in East Khasi Hills district and another at Kalaichar in South West Garo Hills district. Several other haats are in various stages of operation but have not yet been fully activated.
A senior government official stated, “The government has decided to temporarily suspend business operations at the border haats until the situation in Bangladesh stabilizes.” This decision follows inputs from the BSF and state police.
Additionally, the state government imposed a curfew along the international border with Bangladesh from 6 pm to 6 am daily until further notice. A meeting with stakeholders, including the BSF and state police, is planned to discuss the situation and address potential risks posed by anti-national elements.
Meghalaya has about 22 proposed border haats along its 443-km international border with Bangladesh.
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