Shillong, February 19. Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma announced in the state assembly that over 817 local areas and 427 sub-local areas have been registered under the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (MRSSA) of 2016. The registration drive, aimed at safeguarding local interests, is still underway across the state.
Responding to an opposition proposal, Sangma emphasized the act’s core goal: continuous registration and monitoring of individuals entering the state. ‘The monitoring of people coming into Meghalaya will continue without interruption,’ he assured the house, underscoring the government’s unwavering commitment.
Since assuming office in 2018, his administration has set up facilitation centers and entry-exit points statewide to enforce MRSSA effectively. However, the rollout faced setbacks after the Meghalaya High Court struck down certain provisions, complicating implementation.
Despite legal hurdles, Sangma reiterated the government’s dedication to the act’s broader objectives. With over 7,000 listed villages in the state, the process demands massive administrative effort, he noted, calling for collective responsibility from all stakeholders including local administrations and community leaders.
‘Registration picks up pace where initiated, and we plan phased expansion to remaining areas,’ Sangma stated. He highlighted MRSSA as a vital tool addressing concerns over influx of outsiders, reinforcing the government’s pledge to security, law and order, and protection of residents’ rights.
The chief minister’s address signals renewed momentum for the act, positioning it as a cornerstone of Meghalaya’s security framework amid ongoing demographic pressures.