Meghalaya govt readies tenancy bill to check influx

SHILLONG: The state government will place the proposed 'Regulation of Landlords and Tenants Verification Bill' to address the issue of illegal immigration and influx before the public consultation scheduled to be held next month.

"We have given a timeline to the department concerned to complete the whole process and then notify it for public consultation to be held on October 3," chief minister Mukul Sangma said after chairing a cabinet meeting here on Friday.

Sangma said the name of the proposed bill will be the 'Regulation of Landlord & Tenancy Verification Bill'. He, however, said it might change after the public consultative meet.

The CM, however, emphasized: "Legislating is not enough. Enforcement (of the legislation) is also required".

Sangma said the definition of landlord would be much more exhaustive and capable of covering all those people who provide accommodation on their premises. "Even if you own an industry, coal miner...who all are staying will also be regulated. It is much more inclusive. It will regulate even those who facilitate people who come and stay whether illegally or whatever. Illegal immigration and influx is not confined to cities and towns but goes beyond," he said.