Shillong, April 23: The Voice of the People Party (VPP) has alleged that Meghalaya lacks any official estimate of illegal immigrants and urged the state government to establish a foolproof mechanism for their detection and deportation.

Speaking after a rally, VPP president Ardent M Basaiawmoit stated that unlike Assam, which has consistently published figures showing a rising trend of illegal immigrants, Meghalaya has not undertaken any such exercise. He cautioned that enforcement measures in Assam could have spillover effects in Meghalaya if the state fails to act.

Basaiawmoit emphasized that illegal immigrants should not be included in the census and must be identified and deported. He further indicated that the party would not submit its demands formally to the government, choosing instead to communicate through the media. He added that the VPP would march to the state secretariat “at the right time” to press its demands and continue holding meetings across districts.

The rally also highlighted broader concerns, including issues with the Meghalaya Public Service Commission, District Selection Committees, pending teachers’ demands, and unresolved border disputes. The party accused the government of failing to address the aspirations of the Khasi-Jaintia community.