Shillong, June 4: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to strengthen mechanisms to check illegal immigration into the state, reviving the long-pending demand for the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP).
During a meeting with the Home Minister in Shillong today, Sangma submitted a memorandum outlining several key concerns of the state, including illegal immigration, constitutional recognition for Khasi and Garo languages, proposed amendments to the Sixth Schedule, and changes to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA).
On immigration, the Chief Minister said Meghalaya requires a more effective mechanism to regulate the entry of outsiders and prevent illegal immigration. He highlighted the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (MRSSA) and the ILP system—both backed by resolutions passed by the State Assembly—as possible tools to strengthen monitoring and regulation.
The memorandum also sought the inclusion of Khasi and Garo in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, a long-standing demand aimed at securing official recognition and promoting the preservation of the state’s indigenous languages.
Sangma further requested the Centre to hold consultations with Northeastern states before proceeding with any amendments to the Sixth Schedule, stressing that tribal protections and autonomous governance mechanisms should be strengthened rather than diluted.
The Chief Minister also conveyed concerns raised by various organisations regarding amendments to the FCRA, particularly provisions that could affect their operations and assets.
Following the meeting, Sangma said he thanked the Home Minister for a patient hearing and expressed hope for positive outcomes on the issues raised.
The memorandum comes amid continuing political and civil society demands in Meghalaya for stronger safeguards against illegal immigration and greater constitutional protection for the state’s tribal identity and institutions.
Also Read: Shah assures KSU of Centre intervention in border row, panel soon on Khasi language
Also Watch
Find latest news from every corner of Northeast India at hubnetwork.in, your online source for breaking news, video coverage.
Also, Follow us on
Twitter-twitter.com/nemediahub
Youtube channel- www.youtube.com/@NortheastMediaHub2020
Instagram- www.instagram.com/ne_media_hub
Download our app from playstore – Northeast Media Hub
.){kind=link}