Meghalaya has introduced stringent measures to regulate migrant workers following recent protests led by the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) over unregistered migrants.
The state government has enacted the Meghalaya Identification, Registration (Safety & Security) of Migrant Workers (Amendment) Bill, 2024, aiming to curb illegal migration and enhance the safety of migrant labourers.
The revised legislation introduces a tough three-pronged approach: stricter permit issuance, improved oversight, and harsher penalties for non-compliance.
Offenders now face fines of up to Rs 1 lakh, with repeated violations potentially resulting in imprisonment.
Employers who fail to register migrant workers will be fined between Rs 5,000 and Rs 1 lakh, a significant increase from the previous Rs 500.
Persistent defaulters could face up to three months in jail.
The Act also establishes a system to address safety concerns and prevent illegal influx.
New positions of “Inspectors” and “Registering Officers” have been created to oversee implementation and ensure compliance.
These measures come amid growing violence against migrant workers in the state, including a recent assault on a Delhi technician in connection with the Durand Cup 2024.
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