Shillong, Jan 27: The state government has decided to reactivate village defence parties (VDPs) in areas along the state’s international border with Bangladesh as well as inter-state border with Assam to curb illegal immigration.
“We have decided as a state government that we will re-activate the functioning of the VDPs in all international border as well as the inter-state border,” Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Home Prestone Tynsong told reporters on Tuesday.
However, he clarified that “this is a national subject and in fact it is not a state subject…”
Asked if the government is considering providing arms to the VDPs, Tynsong said, “Not necessary arms, but we will give more training to the VDPs so that they can also handle this issue (of illegal immigration).”
The deputy chief minister also assured that the state is taking action against illegal immigration as per the existing laws and enforcement mechanisms.
“Action is an ongoing process… We take action as per the provision of the law.”
He further assured border safety, stating, “Right now, we are safe. Jointly, BSF and state police are fully alerted, and district authorities are directed to take action on receiving information.”
On precautions for upcoming elections in Bangladesh, Tynsong said, “We do take precautionary measures irrespective of elections or not”.
