Shillong, Feb 17: Altogether 658 illegal Bangladeshi nationals have been detected and prosecuted in Meghalaya since 2021 while 194 were deported after completing their sentences, Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Home (Police) Prestone Tynsong told the Assembly on Tuesday.
In reply to a call-attention notice moved by VPP legislator from Mawryngkneng Heaving Stone Kharpran, Tynsong said the government has established a “comprehensive and multi-layered anti-infiltration mechanism” to tackle illegal migration.
As many as 18 anti-infiltration check posts, gates and a land customs station are operational along strategic points on the inter-state and Indo-Bangla border.
“These are supplemented by Anti-Infiltration Special Squads functioning in all districts, which regularly conduct anti-infiltration drives, surprise NAKA checks and patrolling in vulnerable areas, in close coordination with the Labour Department, Village Defence Parties and local authorities,” the Deputy Chief Minister said.
The government has also constituted 11 District Task Forces to detect and deport illegal foreign nationals.
“These sustained measures have resulted in significant detections and enforcement outcomes,” he said. “From 2021 till 3 February 2026, a total of 658 Bangladeshi nationals were detected in the State and prosecuted under relevant legal provisions. During the same period, 194 Bangladeshi nationals were deported after completion of their sentence and upon obtaining the requisite Travel Permit from the Bangladesh Embassy.”
Tynsong added that a state-level committee has been created to monitor the identification and deportation of overstaying foreigners.
The Meghalaya Resident Safety and Security Act, 2016, has also been operationalised in parts of East Khasi Hills, while provisions of the Immigration and Foreigners Act 2025, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Ministry of Home Affairs guidelines are being enforced.
“The government appeals to all organisations and citizens to cooperate with the authorities and allow verification to be carried out through lawful means,” he said, stressing the need to protect genuine Indians.
