Shillong: Student groups in Meghalaya, including the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), Federation of Khasi-Jaintia and Garo People (FKJGP), and Synjuk Ki Seng Samla Shnong (SSSS), held a protest in Mawkyrwat against the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).
The pressure groups expressed concerns that the CAA could endanger the indigenous communities of Meghalaya.
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They specifically raised objections to the process outlined in the Citizenship Amendment Rules, 2024, which would allow non-Muslims from Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Afghanistan to obtain Indian citizenship electronically through District Level Committees.
Forwardman Nongrem, president of the KSU’s South West Khasi Hills district unit, demanded the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system in Meghalaya as a protective measure.
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They stated that the ILP would be more effective in safeguarding the rights of the indigenous population.
The groups also issued a warning to village authorities, urging them to remain vigilant against any attempt by outsiders to reside in their jurisdictions.
They emphasized the role of village councils, known as Dorbar Shnong, in controlling entry into villages.