SHILLONG, JAN 24: The Khasi Students Union (KSU) has demanded the Conrad K Sangma-led MDA government to consider passing a second resolution to pressurize the Centre for immediate implementation of the inner line permit (ILP) in Meghalaya.
The decision was taken at the KSU’s general executive council (GEC) meeting held at the North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) on Saturday.
Speaking to media persons after the meeting, KSU president Lambokstar Marngar expressed disappointment over the lack of effective anti-influx mechanisms, stating, ‘We have discussed safety and security concerns and are disappointed that we still lack effective mechanisms to protect the indigenous community from influx and illegal immigration.’
He mentioned that the government had opened an entry-exit gate at Umling in Ri Bhoi district under the Meghalaya Residents, Safety and Security Act (MRSSA), but it has been closed down.
Regarding the delay of the Centre to implement ILP, Marngar said, “We are firm in our stand that the Government of India should implement the ILP as per the resolution passed unanimously by the 60 legislators in the state Assembly.”
He added, “If the Centre continues to delay, the Meghalaya government should consider passing another resolution for immediate implementation.”
On the proposed ILP-like provision in the new Immigration and Foreigners Act, Marngar questioned, “If ILP can be implemented in other Northeast states, why should an ILP-like mechanism be implemented for Meghalaya?”
He demanded a full-fledged ILP, saying, “The Centre is ready to grant approval for ILP implementation in other states, so why not in Meghalaya?”
Responding to the Chief Minister’s statement, KSU President Lambokstar Marngar said, “We need clarity on the proposal the CM is referring to. We cannot comment without knowing the specifics.”
“The CEC will convene a meeting to determine our future course of action, aiming to pressure the government into establishing robust mechanisms to safeguard the indigenous community from the unchecked influx and illegal immigration into the state,” Marngar said adding “We have taken the consensus of all members, and the CEC will convene soon to discuss our course of action on the pending demands.”
On linking coal mining with influx, Marngar emphasized, “We are focused on the MRSSA and addressing the unchecked influx. Coal mining is a separate issue. The government’s failure to fully implement the MRSSA and introduction of complicating amendments is a grave mistake.”
With regards to the issue of inter-state border dispute, the KSU chief said, “The state government should take steps to resolve the problem, citing the incident of law and order breakdown at Lapangap village in West Jaintia Hills.”
He warned that if such incidents recur, the KSU will take action to address the atrocities faced by people living along the interstate border with Assam.
The KSU has instructed its units to be vigilant and warned locals against facilitating illegal immigration.
Members have expressed concern over the lack of transparency in job recruitment processes in the MPSC and DSCs, and the CEC will discuss suggestions to address corruption.
Regarding the tenure of the current KSU leadership, President Lambokstar Marngar stated, “We will have another CEC meeting to discuss the issue, and we cannot disclose this information at present.”
He emphasized the organization’s strength, saying, “The KSU has no dearth of leaders.”
Marngar also highlighted the upcoming milestone, noting, “We are preparing to celebrate our 50th anniversary.”
By Our Reporter
