Shillong, August 30: The Meghalaya Legislative Assembly on Friday passed the Meghalaya Identification Registration Safety and Security of Migrant Workers (Amendments) Bill, 2024, aimed at strengthening the state’s framework for monitoring the migrant workers. One of the key features of the amended bill is the enhancement of penalties, with offenders now facing fines of up to ₹1 lakh.
The Bill was introduced in the Assembly by Shakliar Warjri, Minister in-charge Labour, Employment and Skill Development which was passed by a voice vote.
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong addressed the media, explaining the key clauses of the amended act. He highlighted that the enhanced penalty of ₹1 lakh, a substantial increase from the previous fine of ₹5,000, is aimed at deterring violations of the registration and safety regulations mandated by the act.
“Point number one in the amendment is we increase the penalty clause , previously it was only Rs 5000 and now it goes to Rs 1 Lakh,” Tynsong said adding, “This amendment is crucial for addressing concerns related to the influx of migrant workers in Meghalaya.”
He further mentioned that the amendment strengthens the role of labour inspectors in each block, empowering them to inspect construction sites and take action against those without proper documentation.
“We strengthen the office of the inspector of labour in the respective blocks wherein the labour inspectors are authorised to go and inspect each and every construction site and those who do not have required documents, action can be taken accordingly,” the Deputy Chief Minister.
The bill’s passage comes amid increasing concerns over the effects of unregulated migration on Meghalaya’s socio-economic environment. The government has faced pressure to implement stricter controls on the influx of migrant workers, particularly in light of growing tensions and disputes over employment and resources.