‘DCs asked to act against illegal transportation of livestock’
Shillong, July 5: Construction of two check-posts in Ri-Bhoi and Garo Hills to examine health status of livestock coming from outside the state will be completed soon, said AL Hek, minister in-charge Animal Husbandry & Veterinary, on Friday.
The livestock’s feasibility for consumption will be examined at the check posts, Hek said adding that standard operating procedures (SOPs) in this regard are already in place.
The minister was reacting to a complaint lodged by the Hynniewtrep Youth Council (HYC) seeking strict action against illegal transportation of animals into the state.
Hek assured that no illegal transportation would be allowed and that all livestock brought from other parts of the country would have to undergo proper health check-up supported by proper documentation.
The government issued a notification in this regard and the deputy commissioners have been asked to take action against illegal activities related to transportation of livestock, he said.
Meanwhile, the minister, also a BJP MLA, said it is high time Meghalaya and Assam arrived at a permanent solution to end the age-old boundary dispute.
Referring to the discussions between chief ministers of both the state to resolve the issue, he said a permanent solution would bring succour in the lives of to the border residents.
He, significantly, said the anti-influx mechanisms – either the proposed Inner Line Permit (ILP) or the existing Meghalaya Residents, Safety and Security Act (MRSSA) – should harass any citizen of the country.
“You can introduce any kind of mechanism – ILP or MRSSA. However, no citizen of India should be harassed. That is my clear view and clear point,” he said.
According to Hek, the government is on the job to implement MRSSA to address the concerns of unabated influx into the state.
He reiterated that the BJP would support the government’s decision on implementation of ILP in the state.
Meanwhile, the MLA from Pynthorumkhrah constituency in the city said he would abide by the party’s decision regarding any possible cabinet reshuffle before halfway into the term of MDA-II government.
Asked about a possible agreement for sharing the cabinet berth with his party colleague Sanbor Shullai, who represents South Shillong constituency, Hek declined to comment, saying, “I will not be able to tell you but the party will tell you.”
Hek said he would abide by the party’s decision.
