The East Khasi Hills district administration in Meghalaya has imposed a night curfew along the Bangladesh border amid rising security concerns. District Magistrate Rosetta Mary Kurbah issued the order on Tuesday, citing increased risks of infiltration by militants, smugglers, and individuals linked to illegal activities.
The curfew applies from 8 pm to 6 am within one kilometre of the Zero Line. It bans attempts to cross the international border, unlawful gatherings of five or more people carrying weapons, and activities such as smuggling cattle, contraband, betel nut, dry fish, bidis, cigarettes, and tea leaves. The order was issued urgently under Section 163 of the BNSS and will remain in effect for two months unless revised earlier.
Officials explained that some parts of the border remain porous, allowing illegal migrants and insurgents to slip through, especially at night. Unchecked activity could disrupt public order and threaten peace in the district. The government assured residents that surveillance and preventive measures are ongoing.
Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar said teams from Labour, Tourism, and other departments are conducting inspections in vulnerable areas like Umling. Ground surveillance continues steadily. He noted that issues like raids in South Garo Hills fall under the Home Department’s jurisdiction. Dhar also highlighted that Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has discussed security concerns with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the Governor.
Civil society groups, including the North East Students’ Organisation (NESO) and the Confederation of Meghalaya Social Organisations (CoMSO), have called for stricter action. They warned that illegal migration, exacerbated by measures in Assam and West Bengal, threatens public safety, citizens’ rights, and state security. Both groups urged registration, identity verification, and enhanced deployment of police and officials at key entry points.
