Matia Detention Centre in Goalpara district nearing completion

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: The construction of a detention centre (now called transit camp) for declared foreigners being built at Matia in Goalpara district is nearing completion, Commissioner & Secretary of Home and Political Department, MS Manivannan said on Tuesday.

Earlier on August 11, the Gauhati High Court has directed the State government for completion of the detention centre within a period of 45 days.

"The detention centre is almost complete. But the State government is yet to decide who will operate the centre," Manivannan said.

Sources said it is yet to be finalized whether the State Home and Political Department will operate the centre or it may give responsibility to Inspector General of Prisons or Social Welfare Department to operate the detention centre. The State government may create some new posts to run the detention centre.

A single bench judge of Gauhati High Court comprising Justice Kalyan Rai Surana also directed the State Home & Political Department for shifting of all inmates of the existing detention centres.

The six detention centres were within jails across the State.

In 2014, the Centre had asked the States to set up at least one exclusive detention centre for foreigners or "illegal immigrants" in order not to mix them up with others serving time for various crimes.

Also Read: Complete Matia Detention Centre in 45 Days: Gauhati High Court

Also watch: