Northeast Desk, 20th July: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma assured that the registration of migrant workers will be enforced rigorously, emphasizing that stringent action will be taken against those conducting unauthorized document checks across the region.
Addressing reporters following a meeting with the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) delegation, CM Sangma stated that the state government is considering the proposals and suggestions made by the union regarding the issue.
“We are examining the different proposals and suggestions given by them and we will see how to move forward on those,” he said.
The KSU has been actively checking documents of migrant workers in protest against the alleged government’s failure to implement anti-influx mechanisms, including the Meghalaya Residents’ Safety and Security Act (MRSSA), 2016, and the Inner Line Permit (ILP). According to the KSU, over 2500 migrant workers were turned back in the past 12 days for lacking valid documents.
The Chief Minister reiterated that there are no legal provisions for work permits, and the government has assured the compulsory registration of migrant workers in the state. He clarified that a previous notification mentioning “work permits” actually referred to the Inter-State Migrant Workers Act, which requires the registration of laborers by contractors or employers if five or more workers are involved.
CM Sangma also acknowledged concerns about the implementation of different laws at both the state and national levels. He assured that any shortcomings reported would be addressed, and suggestions for stricter penalties and verification processes would be considered.
The Chief Minister stressed that no individual or organization has the authority to conduct document checks, and legal action will be taken against those who do. Ten cases have been filed against organizations and individuals involved in unauthorized checks, and firm police action has been taken in Sohra to prevent such activities.
“We had a discussion with the organization and the members to clarify certain concerns because I felt strongly that in terms of being clear on the laws, being clear on the provisions of the different Acts should not be a reason for any kind of confusion,” CM Sangma stated. “But as I said nobody has the right to check and anybody who does that and any organization or individual, who does that, the law will take its course.”