Shillong, Nov 21: The Hynniewtrep Youth Council (HYC) has demanded for maintenance of records of refugees from Manipur coming to the state due to the ongoing turmoil in their state.
The organisation also demanded for a survey to record residents residing under the Shillong Cantonment Board and de-recognisation of all self-styled committees/Councils and bestowed powers to the local traditional institutions for administration of such areas
Expressing its concern over the situation in Manipur in a memorandum submitted to East Khasi Hills deputy commissioner RM Kurbah, the HYC president Roykupar Synrem however appreciated the government’s efforts in providing relief and shelter to the affected people.
Suggesting that the affected people shall be sent back to Manipur once the situation improves in that state, the HYC warned that some criminal elements might take advantage of the situation and make Shillong and Meghalaya as their safe haven for criminal activities especially drug trafficking.
Failure in keeping records of people residing in Shillong Cantonment Area, would turn it into a hub of illegal activities like supply and trafficking of illicit drugs in the city and also a safe haven for illegal immigrants into the State.
According to Synrem, areas under Cantonment Board or Defence Estate Officer are outside the jurisdiction of local traditional bodies and as such movement of people is left unchecked and unregulated.
Referring to 80-100 illegal residents at Lum Survey area, the HYC also pointed out to recent arrest of drug dealers from Cantonment area as well as reports of drug peddling and illegal immigration.
Meanwhile, the HYC took strong objection to some self-styled committees/councils under Cantonment Board issuing certificates for enrolment into electoral roll and other purpose.
He said, “Steps should be taken to regulate the movement of people into Cantonment areas,” Synrem said.
