SHILLONG : The demand for implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) in Meghalaya has intensified, with the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) urging the Conrad K. Sangma-led MDA government to pass a second resolution in the State Assembly to pressure the Centre for immediate implementation.
The decision was taken during the KSU’s General Executive Council (GEC) meeting held at North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) on Saturday.
Addressing the media after the meeting, KSU president Lambokstar Marngar expressed serious concern over the lack of effective anti-influx mechanisms in the state. He said the indigenous community continues to remain vulnerable due to unchecked influx and illegal immigration.
“We have discussed the safety and security issues of the indigenous people and are disappointed that there is still no strong mechanism to control influx,” Marngar said.
He pointed out that although the state government had earlier opened an entry-exit gate at Umling in Ri Bhoi district under the Meghalaya Residents, Safety and Security Act (MRSSA), it has since been closed, raising questions over the government’s commitment to enforcement.
Referring to the delay by the Centre, Marngar reiterated that the Government of India must implement ILP in Meghalaya as per the unanimous resolution passed by all 60 MLAs in the State Assembly.
“If the Centre continues to delay, the state government should consider passing another resolution for immediate implementation of ILP,” he asserted.
Questioning the Centre’s proposal of an ILP-like provision under the new Immigration and Foreigners Act, the KSU president asked why Meghalaya was being treated differently when ILP has already been implemented in other northeastern states.
“We want a full-fledged ILP. If other states can have it, why not Meghalaya?” he questioned.
Responding to recent statements made by the Chief Minister, Marngar said the organisation needs clarity on the proposal being referred to. “Without knowing the details, we cannot comment,” he added.
Marngar further stated that the KSU Central Executive Council (CEC) will convene soon to decide the organisation’s future course of action to intensify pressure on the government for effective safeguards against illegal immigration.
On linking coal mining with influx, he clarified that coal mining is a separate issue and stressed that the government’s failure to fully implement MRSSA, along with the introduction of complicated amendments, has weakened the law.
Regarding the interstate border dispute, Marngar urged the state government to take decisive steps, citing the recent law and order situation at Lapangap village in West Jaintia Hills. He warned that the KSU would take action if such incidents continue.
The KSU has also instructed its units to remain vigilant and warned locals against facilitating illegal immigration.
Concerns were also raised over alleged lack of transparency in recruitment processes conducted by the Meghalaya Public Service Commission (MPSC) and District Selection Committees (DSCs). The CEC is expected to deliberate on measures to address corruption.
On the tenure of the present KSU leadership, Marngar said the matter would be discussed in another CEC meeting and declined to disclose details.
Highlighting the organisation’s strength, he said the KSU has no shortage of leaders and is preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary.