Meghalaya has intensified its border vigilance following Assam’s large-scale eviction operations. Authorities fear that people displaced by the drive may attempt to cross into Meghalaya’s territory. In response, the state has deployed additional police forces and instructed officials to remain alert.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma’s government has taken swift action to ensure that those evicted in Assam do not settle illegally in Meghalaya. Officials are closely monitoring border areas, particularly in districts like East Jaintia Hills, West Khasi Hills, Ri-Bhoi, and West Jaintia Hills.
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Assam eviction drive raises concern
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recently announced that the government had cleared 1.19 lakh bighas of encroached land. However, he also stated that around 63 lakh acres still remain under encroachment. These figures have triggered concerns in neighbouring states, especially Meghalaya, which shares long and porous borders with Assam.
Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong acknowledged the risk of illegal migration and declared that strict measures are already in place. “We will not allow anyone to enter and settle illegally,” he asserted during a press briefing.
Officials take proactive measures
The state’s Home Department directed all deputy commissioners and superintendents of police in border districts to intensify surveillance. They are now using foot patrols, checkpoints, and local village watch groups to track suspicious movement.
Furthermore, forest routes and national highways, often used for unauthorised crossings, are under close watch. The police have increased their presence in vulnerable stretches to deter any movement from Assam.
Villagers remain on edge
Residents of border villages have reported growing fear. Many claim to have spotted unfamiliar individuals trying to enter Meghalaya from Assam’s Karbi Anglong and Hojai districts.
A farmer in Umkiang village shared, “We’ve never seen these people before. We are keeping a lookout and have informed local police.”
To support authorities, village councils are working with police units. They are verifying new arrivals and reporting unusual activity promptly.
Political leaders support strict vigilance
Meghalaya’s regional political parties, such as the Hill State People’s Democratic Party (HSPDP) and the United Democratic Party (UDP), have endorsed the government’s strict vigilance.
HSPDP president KP Pangniang emphasized, “The state must remain firm. Our lands and people must be protected from any encroachment or infiltration.”
The UDP also praised the government’s quick response, urging constant review of border strategies.
Civil bodies seek balance
Despite support for heightened security, some human rights groups have expressed concern over the humanitarian implications. They urged authorities to ensure that no displaced individuals face inhumane treatment while maintaining the state’s border integrity.
A spokesperson from the Meghalaya People’s Rights Network commented, “While we support protecting our land, the dignity and rights of every individual must be respected.”
These organisations have also called on the central government to step in and oversee the situation with transparency and fairness.
Coordination with Assam crucial
Meghalaya officials have reached out to their Assam counterparts for better coordination. They want real-time updates on eviction zones and displaced populations to avoid confusion or border disputes.
“We are in regular contact with Assam. We want to prevent misunderstandings and ensure that both states handle this situation peacefully,” Deputy CM Tynsong stated.
However, Assam maintains that its operations are well within legal limits and that no evicted person has crossed into Meghalaya so far.
Long-standing tensions
Meghalaya and Assam have a history of border disputes. Several areas, including Langpih and Mukroh, have witnessed clashes in recent years. Consequently, both states remain sensitive to any developments along the shared border.
Though recent peace talks between the two states have shown progress, situations like the current eviction drive have the potential to reignite tensions. Therefore, proactive steps from both governments are crucial.
Security to remain tight
The Meghalaya government has decided to keep surveillance active for the coming weeks. Daily reports from district officials are being reviewed in Shillong. Based on this data, the state plans to revise its border monitoring protocols.
Citizens have been advised to remain cautious and immediately inform local authorities about any suspicious activity. Moreover, mobile units have been stationed in remote villages to respond quickly to emergencies.
Eviction fallout remains uncertain
As the eviction drive in Assam continues, thousands of families remain displaced. With no clear rehabilitation plan, many may look for shelter in neighbouring areas.
While Assam defends its land recovery actions, neighbouring states like Meghalaya must now deal with potential secondary impacts. Both humanitarian and territorial challenges lie ahead.
For now, Meghalaya remains committed to preserving its land and protecting its people, even as regional dynamics continue to shift.
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