COVID-19: NGOs ask govt to set up entry-exit points to regulate entry of outsiders

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJune 2, 2020

Anti-influx groups have asked the state government to conduct a pilot project on the entry-exit points to regulate entry of outsiders into the state in view of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The suggestion was made in a joint memorandum submitted by the group of social organizations to the Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Tuesday.

They include Khasi Students Union (KSU), Garo Students Union (GSU), Federation of Khasi Jaintia and Garo People (FKJGP), Hynniewtrep National Youth Front (HNYF), Ri Bhoi Youth Federation (RBYF), Achik Youth Welfare Organisation (AYWO) and Association for Democracy and Empowerment (ADE).

The social organizations have expressed their anguish and unhappiness over the delay in implementing the first phase of setting up of the entry-exit points as mandated by the Meghalaya Residents, Safety and Security Act, 2016.

They have also lamented that since the inception of the Act, the successive governments did very less and always assure of speedy and immediate implementation of the Act at every meeting.

“It is very unfortunate that till date, not even the first phase of the project is operational,” the letter said.

The conglomeration of NGOs further cited the example of Manipur whereby ILP is implemented immediately once it is being notified by the Central government and suggested that the government of Meghalaya should take a cue from the state of Manipur.

The letter further suggested that the state government to conduct a pilot project on the entry-exit points in view of the ongoing Corona pandemic, so as to regulate entry of outsiders into the state.

The first phase of the entry-exit points consisted of the areas of Malidor, Byrnihat Borbhuin, Athiabari, Medhipara Junction, Abhirampara, Chibinang, Bhoglurbitha, Phulbari (Ghat), Rajabala, Singimari Trijunction, Tangaon, Baljek Airport, Mirjumla, Jhunjuni, Dainadubi, Manikganj, Nalbari Railway Station, Mendipathar Railway Station, Mendipathar Bazar, Khaldang & Bajengdoba.