The Jaintia National Council (JNC) has called upon Meghalaya’s Deputy Chief Minister, Prestone Tynsong, to take immediate action to dismantle Border Security Force (BSF) check posts located in areas such as Sonapyrdi, Umbluh, and Dona, citing allegations of civilian harassment and border security lapses. Accusing the BSF of failing to effectively secure the border and harassing civilians, the JNC highlighted recent incidents, including the tragic death of Sylvanus Dhar near Umkiang village in Meghalaya’s East Jaintia Hills district and instances of Bangladeshi nationals pelting stones at Indian citizens.
In a memorandum submitted to Deputy CM Tynsong, the JNC leaders expressed dissatisfaction with the BSF’s performance in preventing illegal immigration and drug smuggling. They also voiced concerns about alleged instances of BSF personnel’s high-handedness, citing an incident on April 20, 2024, where three youths from Thangskai and Lum Tongseng villages were reportedly assaulted by BSF personnel. The JNC urged the Meghalaya government to find a political solution to the issue and emphasized the removal of BSF check posts, which they perceive as targeting locals and failing to ensure their protection.
Signed by JNC President S. Lyngdoh and General Secretary W. Suting, the memorandum further advocated for strengthening the anti-infiltration check gate in East Jaintia Hills district due to lax checks at the Ratacherra entry-exit point. Expressing concerns about unchecked immigration during night hours due to inadequate police patrols, the JNC highlighted potential repercussions on demographics, employment opportunities, and public safety. In response, Deputy CM Tynsong assured the Council during a meeting that the government would address the issue promptly and take necessary measures to ensure the safety of the people.