Contractor discontinues work for entry point at Umling

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJanuary 4, 2020

SHILLONG: The setting up of the much-awaited entry point at Umling in Ri Bhoi District has completely stopped after the contractor refused to continue with the work.

Sources in the Public Works Department (Buildings) have informed that the decision taken by the contractor was after he was allegedly not given any payment by the state government.

The contractor had started the work by investing his own money. “However, the state government has not sanction any fund for the setting up of the entry point at Umling,” sources said.

It may be mentioned here that the land development at Umling for setting up of the entry point to check influx and illegal immigration entering the state, was started in May, last year.

The land belongs to the transport department. Sources further informed that the detailed project report (DPR) is also yet to be prepared owing to the financial crisis faced by the state.

It may be mentioned here that the setting up of the entry-exit points is being mandated as per the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (MRSSA), 2016.

Following the passing of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), 2019, there has been growing demand from NGOs in the state for the immediate implementation of the MRSSA.

The Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government had also passed a resolution urging the Centre to implement the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system in the state following massive protests against the CAA.

However according to cabinet minister and BJP MLA, AL Hek, the government is yet to decide on the date to visit New Delhi for handing over the resolution to union home minister Amit Shah.