194 Bangladeshi Nationals Deported from Meghalaya After Completing Sentences
In a significant development regarding border security, Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong informed the state Assembly on Tuesday that a total of 194 Bangladeshi nationals who had illegally entered the state since 2021 have been deported after completing their sentences. This announcement came during a session where Tynsong, who holds the home (police) portfolio, provided detailed insights into the state's efforts to combat unauthorized migration.
Comprehensive Anti-Infiltration Mechanism Established
Tynsong revealed that the government has established a "comprehensive and multi-layered anti-infiltration mechanism" to tackle the issue of illegal migration effectively. This robust system includes:
- 18 anti-infiltration check posts, gates, and a land customs station operational along strategic points on the inter-state boundary with Assam and the India-Bangladesh border.
- Anti-Infiltration Special Squads functioning in all districts, conducting regular drives, surprise naka checks, and patrolling in vulnerable areas.
- Close coordination with the labour department, Village Defence Parties, and local authorities to enhance surveillance and detection capabilities.
The deputy chief minister emphasized that these measures are part of a sustained effort that has yielded significant enforcement outcomes.
Detection and Prosecution Statistics
According to the official data presented to the Assembly:
- From 2021 until February 3, 2026, a total of 658 Bangladeshi nationals were detected in Meghalaya and prosecuted under relevant legal provisions.
- During the same period, 194 individuals were deported after completing their sentences and obtaining the requisite travel permits from the Bangladesh Embassy.
Tynsong made these statements while replying to a call-attention notice moved by Voice of the People Party (VPP) legislator from Mawryngkneng, Heaving Stone Kharpran, highlighting the government's proactive approach to addressing concerns about illegal migration.
Additional Measures and Legal Framework
To further strengthen the state's response, the government has constituted 11 district task forces specifically tasked with detecting and deporting illegal foreign nationals. Additionally, a state-level committee has been created to monitor the identification and deportation of overstaying foreigners, ensuring systematic oversight of the process.
The legal framework supporting these efforts includes:
- The operationalization of the Meghalaya Resident Safety and Security Act, 2016 in parts of East Khasi Hills.
- Enforcement of provisions from the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and Ministry of Home Affairs guidelines.
Appeal for Public Cooperation
Tynsong concluded his address by appealing to all organizations and citizens to cooperate with authorities and allow verification to be carried out through lawful means. He stressed the dual importance of protecting genuine Indian citizens while ensuring that illegal infiltration is dealt with firmly and in accordance with the law, maintaining both security and justice in the border state.
