The Khasi Students’ Union has repatriated over 2,500 migrant workers who failed to present valid documents, according to KSU president Lambokstarwell Marngar.
The union has been conducting document checks at various construction sites across the Khasi-Jaintia region for the past 12 days.
This announcement coincides with the 189th death anniversary of the legendary Khasi freedom fighter, U Tirot Sing Syiem, whose rebellion against the British Empire is celebrated in Shillong on July 17.
Marngar also revealed plans to intensify these checks as a protest against the State Government’s alleged failure to enforce existing laws, including the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (MRSSA) of 2016. The KSU is also pressing the Centre to implement the inner line permit (ILP) to curb the influx of migrants into the state.
The union plans to meet with other NGOs to discuss further actions on this issue. Addressing a gathering, Marngar asserted, “We will continue to intensify the checking of documents of migrant labourers despite government-police action against the union and its members.”
He expressed concerns over the legal status of these migrant workers, questioning, “We also want to know how many cases have the government filed against such illegal migrant workers without valid documents, and what action is being taken against contractors for violating the rules.”
Marngar argued that the KSU’s actions aim to assist the government in enforcing existing laws. He criticised the State for failing to implement these laws effectively and highlighted confusion over the implementation of various regulations related to migrant workers.
He pointed out, “The Meghalaya Identification, Registration (Safety & Security) of Migrant Workers Act, 2020, and other laws have created confusion. Instead of strengthening the existing laws, the government is attempting to do away with them.”
Marngar questioned the government’s lack of action, especially in light of recent incidents involving Bangladeshi nationals being detected in Shillong. “This shows the weakness of the government and poses a serious threat to the indigenous community if it does not wake up from its slumber,” he stated.
Additionally, Marngar criticized the State Government for allegedly ordering police to harass union members. He remarked, “Being a minister or a public representative is not a permanent post; it’s only a five-year contractual post. Therefore, small people also have their own role to play and time will be the best teller of this.”
The KSU plans to continue the checking drive despite government actions against them, asserting their commitment to protecting the interests of the indigenous community in Meghalaya.
