Meghalaya govt to amend MRSSA, 2016 to address illegal immigration

Chief Minister Conrad Sangma has assured the Meghalaya Assembly that the government will revisit and amend the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (MRSSA), 2016 to effectively address concerns over illegal immigration.
During a discussion on a Resolution moved by Leader of Opposition and Trinamool Congress (TMC) legislator Dr. Mukul Manda Sangma, the Chief Minister stated that the amendments would be carefully drafted to withstand judicial scrutiny and align with the Government of India and Parliament’s framework. Following this assurance, Dr. Mukul Sangma withdrew his Resolution, which had urged the government to expedite the establishment of facilitation centres at identified entry-exit points and implement regulatory measures mandated under MRSSA.
Conrad Sangma informed the House that the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had advised the state to re-examine the Act. He said the government is working closely with the Law Department, Advocate General, and Home Department to navigate the complexities of legal provisions. Plans are also underway to validate entry-exit points through the upcoming Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025, incorporating restricted area provisions.
The Chief Minister emphasized inclusivity in the amendment process, stating that political parties and stakeholders would be engaged in discussions to strengthen the Act. He highlighted that tackling illegal immigration requires not only regulatory measures but also long-term socio-economic solutions, noting that economic opportunities are a major driver of migration.
Dr. Mukul Sangma appreciated the government’s willingness to work collectively, expressing optimism about the discussion. He said the debate reflected a shared resolve and responsibility to address the issue of illegal immigration.
The Meghalaya government will revisit and amend MRSSA, 2016, to ensure its legal robustness and effectiveness in curbing illegal immigration. The move follows advice from the MHA and collective discussions in the Assembly. The amendments will involve stakeholder consultation, validation of entry-exit points under new national laws, and consideration of socio-economic factors driving migration. Both the government and opposition expressed a united commitment to strengthening safeguards against illegal immigration.