Shillong, 24 July (HS): Concerned over the ongoing eviction drive by the Assam government targeting illegal immigrants and encroachers, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Kongkal Sangma on Thursday held a high-level meeting with all district deputy commissioners.

The eviction drive, which began in Assam’s Dhubri and Goalpara districts, has now reached Karbi Anglong district bordering Meghalaya. In view of the situation, CM Sangma interacted with DCs through video conferencing and instructed them to enhance vigilance and surveillance along the Assam-Meghalaya inter-state border.

He directed that police officials, village heads, NGOs, and Village Defence Parties (VDPs) should remain alert to ensure that no illegal entrant crosses into Meghalaya. Sangma asked the DCs to keep special watch on sensitive areas and ensure round-the-clock patrolling, especially in border regions.

The CM informed that the Border Security Force (BSF) has already intensified monitoring along the inter-state boundary. In recent weeks, BSF personnel deployed in Meghalaya have detained several illegal Bangladeshi nationals. While those whose nationality has been verified are being deported, others are currently under police custody for further investigation.

Following the meeting, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Shakil P. Ahammed said the Assam government’s eviction drive is mainly taking place in border regions, which may cause some people to move towards Meghalaya. He urged all officials to remain on high alert and act strictly as per state government protocols and directives.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash