Timjim Momin, a public figure from Meghalaya’s North Garo Hills district, has formally approached the Deputy Commissioner seeking an inquiry into the engagement of more than 400 outside-State labourers for rake loading work at Mendipathar railway station on December 28, 2025. Raising concerns over local employment and social implications, Momin has urged authorities to examine the matter and ensure accountability.
Momin stated that despite the availability of local tribal labourers, workers from outside Meghalaya were allegedly brought in, depriving local youth and daily wage earners of job opportunities. He warned that such practices could threaten the livelihoods of residents, weaken morale among the local workforce, and create a sense of alienation within the indigenous community.
He called on the district administration to identify the contractors or agencies responsible and initiate action in accordance with the law. Stressing the need for transparency, Momin urged that all agencies involved in labour recruitment should disclose their hiring practices and strictly follow local employment norms and regional guidelines.
Invoking constitutional safeguards under the Sixth Schedule, Momin demanded that rake loading work at the railway station must prioritise and ensure full engagement of eligible local tribal labourers. He emphasised that these provisions are meant to protect the rights and interests of indigenous communities, warning that any deviation could set an adverse precedent for future projects in the region.
The representation also highlighted concerns among residents about possible infiltration into Mendipathar and adjoining areas, with fears that individuals displaced by eviction drives in neighbouring states might attempt to enter under the pretext of labour work. Momin cautioned that unchecked entry of outside workers could raise demographic anxieties and social tensions.
Calling for stronger monitoring and verification mechanisms, he urged authorities to prevent illegal settlement attempts and maintain law and order. He recommended stricter documentation and identity verification procedures for all labourers engaged at the site, along with periodic reviews by law enforcement agencies.
Appealing for prompt intervention, Momin said timely action would help protect local livelihoods and uphold constitutional safeguards. Copies of his letter have also been sent to the Chief Minister of Meghalaya, the local Member of Parliament, and MLAs of North Garo Hills to ensure coordinated attention and action from all concerned authorities.