NGOs urge exemption of Meghalaya from CAA and ILP implementation

SHILLONG: At least three NGOs have called on the NPP-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government to petition the Centre for complete exemption of Meghalaya from the purview of the citizenship amendment act and its rules.

They also advocated for the immediate implementation of the inner line permit (ILP) system in Meghalaya to curb unchecked migration into the state.

In a memorandum submitted to Meghalaya chief minister Conrad Sangma, the central bodies of the Hynniewtrep Youth Council (HYC), Jaintia National Council (JNC) and Confederation of Ri Bhoi People (CORP) urged swift action.

HYC president Roy Kupar Synrem emphasized the need for the Meghalaya chief minister to press the central government for full exemption from the CAA and its rules.

He highlighted concerns about the recent notification of the citizenship amendment rules by the ministry of home affairs (MHA) on March 11 this year.

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While acknowledging the CAA’s exemption in tribal areas, Synrem pointed out that certain parts of Meghalaya, particularly areas in Shillong city, lack sixth schedule provisions and host a significant immigrant population.

He questioned the efficacy of preventing migrants from acquiring citizenship under the act in these areas without proper monitoring mechanisms.

Expressing apprehension about the potential influx from neighbouring Northeast states, particularly Assam, Synrem underscored the necessity of implementing the ILP system and ensuring full exemption from the CAA to safeguard Meghalaya’s interests.

The NGOs contend that without these measures, Meghalaya could face adverse consequences due to unchecked migration, emphasizing the urgency of immediate action to protect Meghalaya's demographic integrity and socio-cultural fabric.