Northeast Desk, 18th July: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) has reported pushing back over 2500 migrant workers for allegedly lacking valid documents during a rigorous 12-day inspection at construction sites across the Khasi-Jaintia region. KSU President Lambokstarwell Marngar announced the union’s decision to escalate these checks in protest against perceived governmental lapses in enforcing laws such as the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (MRSSA), 2016, and the delayed implementation of the inner line permit (ILP).
Speaking at an event commemorating the 189th death anniversary of Khasi freedom fighter U Tirot Sing Syiem in Shillong on July 17, Marngar criticized the state government’s handling of migrant labor issues. He questioned the efficacy of existing laws and highlighted discrepancies in government statements regarding work permits and migrant worker regulations.
Marngar emphasized that the KSU’s actions aimed to assist the government in law enforcement rather than usurping authority, despite allegations to the contrary. He accused the government of failing to act decisively against illegal migrants and contractors flouting labor regulations.
Expressing frustration over alleged police harassment of union members, Marngar condemned nocturnal arrests purportedly sanctioned by government authorities. He underscored the transient nature of political power and pledged continued activism despite official opposition.
The KSU intends to collaborate with other NGOs to strategize further actions, insisting that their document checks serve as a wake-up call to the state government regarding indigenous community security.
As tensions escalate, the KSU remains steadfast in its commitment to uphold state laws and protect indigenous interests through vigilant monitoring of migrant labor practices.