SHILLONG, JAN 9:
Cabinet minister and United Democratic Party (UDP) legislator from Amlarem, Lahkmen Rymbui, has called for a cautious approach towards railway expansion in Meghalaya, stressing the need to balance economic development with the state’s demographic sensitivities.
Speaking to media persons on Friday, Rymbui acknowledged the economic benefits of railway connectivity but said Meghalaya’s situation requires special consideration.
“We cannot deny that railways contribute to economic prosperity, but our issue is unique because of our small population and the fear of being outnumbered by outsiders,” Rymbui said.
The minister noted that while the NDA government aims to connect state capitals through railways and airports, Meghalaya’s Scheduled Area status necessitates respect for local sentiments and traditional institutions.
Commending the role of dorbar shnongs in regulating the movement of non-locals, Rymbui said strong community mechanisms are already in place to monitor entry into villages.
“We have a strong mechanism to check the entry of outsiders. People coming from outside will have to comply with the rules of the respective dorbar shnongs,” he said.
Rymbui also highlighted the challenges in preventing illegal immigration, pointing to recent cases where Bangladeshi nationals were apprehended in various parts of the state.
“It is undeniable that outsiders entering the state will require transportation, which is why it is concerning that illegal Bangladeshi nationals are being caught in areas such as Pynursla, Khliehriat, and Lad Rymbai,” he added.
Emphasising the importance of cooperation, the cabinet minister said no system is entirely foolproof, but collective effort remains key.
“There is no full-proof system, but what is important is that we work together on such matters,” Rymbui said.