Northeast Desk, 25th July: On July 24, pressure groups in Meghalaya announced their intention to support the state government in implementing the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (MRSSA) of 2016. During a joint meeting held at the Federation of Khasi Jaintia and Garo People (FKJGP) office in Shillong, representatives from several organizations—including the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), FKJGP, Hynniewtrep National Youth Front (HNYF), Ri Bhoi Youth Federation (RBYF), Jaintia Students’ Union (JSU), Garo Students’ Union (GSU), Achik Youth Welfare Organization (AYWO), and Federation for Achik Freedom (FAF)—resolved to conduct checks against illegal migrants across the state.
KSU president Lambokstarwell Marngar explained that the groups decided to step in due to a reported shortage of manpower within the government for the immediate implementation of MRSSA. He confirmed that their efforts would focus on extensive checks for illegal and undocumented migrants in the near future.
The decision comes amidst criticism directed at Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma and his administration for the perceived lack of progress since the MRSSA’s enactment in 2016. The pressure groups criticized the government’s claim that the Act is being enforced, arguing that there is a disconnect between public statements and actual implementation. They also expressed frustration over infrastructure issues, accusing the government of misleading them by equating COVID-19 checkpoints in Ri-Bhoi with MRSSA enforcement points.
The groups are now mobilizing to address these concerns and ensure effective enforcement of the MRSSA.
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