The Meghalaya Government has announced a temporary halt to operations at the border haats due to escalating tensions in Bangladesh. This decision comes in response to intelligence reports indicating increased risks of cross-border activities, including movements by militant groups, smugglers, and unauthorised personnel if these markets were to remain open.
Currently, two border haats are active: one in Balat, East Khasi Hills, and the other in Kalaichar, South West Garo Hills. While several other haats are proposed, they remain inactive.
A senior official confirmed, “The suspension will remain in place until the situation in Bangladesh stabilises,” asserting the precautionary nature of this measure based on inputs from the Border Security Force (BSF) and State police.
In addition to the suspension, the Meghalaya Government has imposed a curfew along the international border from 6 pm to 6 am daily. A meeting with stakeholders, including the BSF and state police, is planned to evaluate the situation further and address the risks posed by potential exploitation by anti-national elements. Meghalaya’s international border extends 443 kilometres, with around 22 proposed border haats.
