Shillong, August 21: Collapsed and damaged border fencing is reportedly being used by Bangladeshi nationals to infiltrate into Meghalaya territory, according to residents of three border villages in South West Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya.
Villagers from Khonjoy B, Rangdongai and Maheshkhola shared their concerns with a three-member government team during its visit today. The team, comprising Mendipathar legislator and adviser to the Power department Marthon J Sangma, former Mawsynram legislator and adviser to the Education department Himalaya Shangpliang, and vice chairman Kitboklang Nongrem, was dispatched by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma and Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Home Prestone Tynsong following a recent attack on a villager by suspected Bangladeshi infiltrators.
The government team said the team interacted with residents of all three villages and was informed that several sections of border fencing had collapsed in areas far from the Border Out Post.
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Despite the situation, villagers expressed confidence in the BSF and police, who are reportedly maintaining round-the-clock patrols.
Shangpliang said the team will submit a report to the Chief Minister and the Deputy Chief Minister for necessary action. He added that villagers from Maheshkhola are particularly concerned about infiltration due to the damaged fencing and have urged the government to initiate immediate repairs.
“The illegal infiltration of Bangladeshi nationals poses a serious threat to the safety and security of people residing in the border areas, especially women and children,” Shangpliang said.
Meanwhile, Superintendent of Police of South West Khasi Hills, B Jyrwa, has requested additional force deployment to strengthen security in the affected villages.
(Newmai News Network)