In a recent Assembly session on August 29, Mukul Sangma, the newly-appointed Leader of the Opposition in Meghalaya, called for the expedited implementation of the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (MRSSA) of 2016. Sangma underscored the urgency of addressing amendments related to facilitation centres, which had previously faced objections from the Meghalaya High Court.
Sangma highlighted that while the MRSSA has passed judicial scrutiny, it requires fine-tuning to ensure effective implementation. He stressed the importance of demonstrating commitment to civil society by moving forward with the Act. The MRSSA, aimed at empowering local traditional bodies and addressing concerns over illegal immigration, has faced delays due to proposed amendments and constitutional procedures. These delays have hindered the Act’s full implementation.
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong responded to Sangma’s call by confirming that key provisions of the MRSSA, such as tenant verification and the formation of District Task Forces, are currently being enforced. Tynsong also noted that discussions with the Ministry of Home Affairs about the amended bill are ongoing. “We are actively pursuing this issue. The Chief Minister has recently discussed it with the Union Home Minister in Delhi,” Tynsong said.
