Meghalaya: Shillong Cantonment Board To Target Illegal Immigrants

SHILLONG: Amid growing concerns over the presence of illegal immigrants, the Shillong Cantonment Board in Meghalaya has launched a concerted effort to identify and address illegal immigration in areas under its jurisdiction. A joint inspection, set to take place in the coming days, is expected to help pinpoint areas where illegal immigrants are reportedly taking shelter.

Shillong Cantonment Board CEO Ayush Maurya confirmed that instances of illegal immigration, drug abuse and other unlawful activities have come to the Board’s notice. "We're planning a joint inspection with stakeholders, including the state government, as soon as possible," Maurya stated, adding that the inspection is expected to take place this week or early next week.

Through this initiative, the Board aims to identify hotspots where illegal immigrants are residing. Following the inspection, authorities will determine the necessary course of action, which could include installing CCTV cameras or conducting further physical inspections on the ground.

Currently, the Shillong Cantonment Board maintains records of all lessee holders; however, tenant records are yet to be updated. Maurya stated that only lessee holders, registered tenants, and licensed traders are permitted to reside in the cantonment area.

Earlier, several pressure groups had petitioned the Shillong Cantonment Board, demanding the eviction of illegal settlers from a plot of land opposite the Bara Bazaar Fire and Emergency Service Station at Lum Survey.

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