Shillong: The Meghalaya government has announced a two-fold plan to improve security across the state and along its borders.
The strategy involves reactivating the Village Defence Party (VDP) and reviewing the recently passed Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025, to explore options similar to the Inner Line Permit (ILP).
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong said the move is aimed at addressing cross-border concerns and ensuring the safety of residents. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has asked officials to carefully examine the 2025 Act to see if it can help regulate entry into the state more effectively.
Tynsong added that the Act’s provisions have been sent to the Advocate General and a team of legal experts to ensure any actions taken are fully in line with the law.
On the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (MRSSA), 2016, he confirmed that the law is active throughout the state. District-level task forces, led by Deputy Commissioners, are already operational, with Shillong’s system functioning fully.
He explained that the original MRSSA had a key limitation: it did not allow for the establishment of entry and exit points, which made full enforcement difficult. To address this, the state government introduced an amendment bill, which was later referred to the Ministry of Home Affairs for review. Despite this, the MRSSA continues to be implemented.
To strengthen on-ground vigilance, the VDP has been reactivated along both international and inter-state borders. Tynsong clarified that this step is preventive, focusing on training and providing support rather than arming members at this stage.
Addressing border security concerns, he said the situation along the Meghalaya-Bangladesh border is under control. Joint patrolling by the Border Security Force, state police, and district authorities is ongoing to ensure peace.
Regarding the recent Maikhuli dispute along the Meghalaya-Assam border, Tynsong said such tensions often arise from misunderstandings. Coordinated efforts, including dialogue and peace committees, helped resolve the issue, allowing the disputed electric pole to be installed peacefully.
Following the killing of an ACHIK member in the Rajabala area, Tynsong said the situation remains calm.
A peace committee has been formed, over six arrests have been made, and authorities are keeping a close watch on the area to maintain stability.