Meghalaya: HITO Warns of Growing Livestock Smuggling, Seeks Urgent Action

Shillong: The Hynñiewtrep Integrated Territorial Organisation (HITO) has raised serious concerns over the growing problem of livestock smuggling and unregulated meat imports in Meghalaya. In a letter to Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Minister A.L. Hek, the group urged the government to take urgent and uncompromising action to stop the illegal trade, warning that it is harming the state’s economy, public health, and governance.

HITO claimed that cattle smuggling to Bangladesh has reached alarming levels, with frequent seizures reported by the BSF Meghalaya Frontier. It also alleged that poultry and piggery products are being brought into the state illegally through networks of smugglers, local agents, and sometimes with the help of certain police personnel. Byrnihat in Ri-Bhoi district was identified as the main entry point for these activities, and the group said there is no government system in place to regulate or monitor imports.

The organisation also highlighted the social impact, saying that many young people in Ri-Bhoi have dropped out of school to work in smuggling because it offers quick money. HITO has suggested a number of measures, including permanent check gates at key points, compulsory veterinary checks, strict verification of ownership and origin, night-time mobile inspection squads, and strong punishments for offenders and officials involved. It also recommended revenue recovery for legal imports, community awareness programmes, and alternative livelihood options to keep youth away from illegal activities.

If the government fails to act, HITO warned it will carry out its own inspections and investigations to expose smuggling routes, identify facilitators, and reveal cases of official negligence. The group said the matter is urgent and needs immediate attention to protect the people’s health, uphold the rule of law, and safeguard Meghalaya’s economy.