SHILLONG: The GOERA (Garo Omniscience for Ethnic Renaissance and Awakening) Central Governing Body has formally raised urgent concerns over the rising issue of illegal immigration in Meghalaya.
In a letter addressed to the Ministry of Home Affairs, the organization has called for swift government action to address this pressing problem, with specific emphasis on enhancing border security, implementing the National Register of Citizens (NRC), and ensuring the functionality of crucial entry and exit points in the state.
The letter highlights the growing concern over illegal immigrants, particularly from Bangladesh, crossing into Meghalaya. Border areas like Gillagora in the West Khasi Hills district have seen a significant influx, which GOERA asserts not only poses a national security risk but is also reshaping the state’s demographic structure, particularly in constituencies near Assam.
GOERA urges the government to strengthen border security by increasing the deployment of Border Security Force (BSF) personnel along the India-Bangladesh border in Meghalaya.
Another key issue raised in the letter is the urgent need for the activation of entry and exit points under the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act, 2016. GOERA believes that a proper registry will help identify and deport illegal immigrants, further securing the region from potential security threats.
Additionally, the organization requests an investigation into the issue of dual voting in constituencies in both Meghalaya and Assam, particularly in the plainbelt regions such as Raksamgre, Tikrikilla, Phulbari, Rajabala, and Selsela.
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