Chief Minister Reports 736 Illegal Foreign Nationals Detected Since 2021

Shillong, India Aug 26, 2026 ALN: The Chief Minister of , Conrad K Sangma, reported to the Assembly that a total of 736 foreign nationals have been identified as staying illegally in the state since 2021. Of these individuals, 262 have been deported after serving their sentences and obtaining the necessary travel permits. This announcement came during a short-duration discussion on the 10-point charter proposed by the VPP, led by Nongkrem MLA Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit.

This issue of illegal foreign nationals has been a growing concern in various parts of India, particularly in northeastern states like , which shares a porous border with Bangladesh. The presence of illegal immigrants can lead to socio-economic challenges, including strain on local resources, potential security threats, and cultural tensions. The government has been under pressure to address these concerns effectively, balancing humanitarian considerations with the rule of law.

In his address, Chief Minister Sangma emphasized that the Anti-Infiltration Directorate serves as the primary agency responsible for the detection and deportation of illegal foreign nationals, operating under the directives of the Ministry of Home Affairs. This indicates a structured approach by the state to tackle the complexities associated with illegal immigration.

To strengthen these efforts, the state has established task forces in all 12 districts of . These task forces are tasked with identifying Bangladeshi nationals who are residing illegally in the state. They conduct regular drives and surprise checks, which are carried out by joint teams comprising magistrates, police officers, and officials from the infiltration branch. This multi-agency approach aims to enhance the effectiveness of operations against illegal immigration.

Furthermore, a state-level committee has been constituted, headed by the Principal Secretary or Secretary of Home (Political), to systematically identify foreigners who have overstayed their visas since January 1, 2011. This committee is expected to provide monthly reports to the Ministry of Home Affairs, ensuring that the central government is kept informed of the situation on the ground.

In terms of physical infrastructure to combat illegal immigration, Sangma mentioned the establishment of 18 anti-infiltration checkposts along the Indo-Bangladesh border, as well as railway facilitation centres and Land Customs Stations. These installations are intended to bolster security and facilitate the monitoring of cross-border movements. Additionally, joint patrolling and naka checking operations conducted by the State Police and the Border Security Force (BSF) are ongoing. The use of electronic surveillance and high-density lights at strategic locations further enhances these efforts, making it more difficult for illegal entrants to evade detection.

Community engagement has also been a key component of the state's strategy. Local leaders, known as nokmas, along with headmen and Village Defence Parties (VDPs) in border villages, have been actively involved in monitoring and reporting suspicious activities. The VDP scheme itself has undergone a review to ensure that these community groups are equipped with the necessary tools, technology, and financial resources to carry out their functions effectively, especially in sensitive border areas.

In relation to the MRSSA, 2016 (Migrant Registration and Safety Act), Sangma highlighted that task forces have been established throughout all districts. The online registration process for localities and landlords has been operational since September 2022. As of the latest reports, 966 localities, 561 sub-localities, 1,653 landlords, and 5,042 tenants have successfully registered, marking a significant increase compared to the figures recorded in February of this year. This registration is crucial for ensuring that migrant workers are documented and that their rights and safety are upheld.

Additionally, the state has mandated that migrant workers register under the Identification, Registration, Safety and Security of Migrant Workers Act, 2020. The rules governing this act have been finalized and are set to be presented to the cabinet for approval, indicating a move towards more structured governance of migrant labor in the state.

In an effort to facilitate better services for both locals and visitors, a new facilitation centre at Umling is set to become operational soon. This centre will feature tourist facilities and a food court, aimed at enhancing the experience of travelers and supporting local businesses. Plans are also underway for a similar centre at Ratacherra, along with other proposed locations, which could further bolster the state's economy and improve infrastructure.

The ongoing efforts to detect and deport illegal foreign nationals, alongside the initiatives aimed at registering and safeguarding migrant workers, reflect the government's commitment to addressing the complex challenges posed by migration and illegal immigration. As the state continues to navigate these issues, the implications for local communities, security, and socio-economic dynamics will remain significant, necessitating careful management and policy implementation moving forward.