Amid growing speculation of an impending cabinet reshuffle in the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) 2.0 government, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong has chosen to remain tight-lipped, stating that any such decision rests solely with Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma.
Responding to reporters today, Tynsong said, “As far as reshuffling is concerned, it is entirely the prerogative of the Chief Minister. I have nothing to say on that. It is for the CM to take a call.”
Reports of a potential reshuffle have been doing the rounds, with sources suggesting changes in key ministerial portfolios may be on the horizon. However, there has been no official confirmation from the Chief Minister’s Office so far.
When asked about the possibility of former MLA and the CM’s older brother James PK Sangma being nominated to the Rajya Sabha, Tynsong again declined to comment, saying, “I am not aware.”
UNHAPPY WITH US ADVISORY
Meanwhile, reacting strongly to the recent travel advisory issued by the United States government cautioning its citizens against visiting Meghalaya and other parts of the north East, Tynsong expressed disappointment and questioned the basis of the advisory.
“I think it is very sad that such an advisory has been issued by the government of the United States of America. I don’t know where this report came from or what the source is, but it is very unfortunate,” Tynsong said.
It is fairly common for European and North American countries to issue travel advisories calling for caution while travelling in India, including the North East and even Meghalaya in particular, but Tynsong reacted strongly to this particular advisory.
He asserted that Meghalaya remains one of the safest destinations in the country and beyond. “Let me clarify, as far as Meghalaya is concerned, it is the safest place, not just according to us locals, but also visitors from across India and around the world. People who come here witness it themselves. Meghalaya is safe to visit and spend your holidays,” he said.
The US advisory reportedly cited concerns about potential risks in the region, which includes parts of the North East. However, Tynsong stated that Meghalaya continues to welcome tourists and has not seen any recent incidents that would justify such a classification.
CROSS BORDER SMUGGLING
On the issue of the international border with Bangladesh, Tynsong acknowledged that illegal activities, including cattle smuggling, remain a major concern for the Meghalaya government.
Responding to questions about repeated seizures in his border constituency of Pynursla, Tynsong said, “Illegality is a big concern for the government. That’s why we have already directed all police stations, SPs (Superintendents of Police), SDPOs (Sub-Divisional Police Officer), and other concerned authorities to be more alert and proactive in dealing with such issues.”
The state government is committed to cracking down on all forms of illegal activities, not just cattle smuggling, he asserted. “Whether it’s smuggling, drugs, or other criminal activities, our police force is on the job. You’ve seen that sometimes we seize drugs, sometimes cattle and sometimes arrest criminals. This is an ongoing effort,” he said.
STATE HAS LITTLE SAY IN DAWKI IMPASSE
Sticking with the border, Tynsong addressed concerns over the plight of exporters facing disruptions at the Dawki Land Port due to non-functional internet services, which has left several trucks carrying limestone stranded and unable to proceed with exports to Bangladesh.
When asked whether the state government is looking into the issue, Tynsong responded, “Yes, why not? But let me clarify, when we talk about export, it is not directly a state subject. This comes under the jurisdiction of the central government.”
He explained that export operations between India and Bangladesh fall under the purview of various central agencies. “Ultimately, the appropriate authorities, whether it’s the BSF (Border Security Force), Customs, or the concerned Ministry of Commerce, are in the best position to address these operational issues and ensure that all basic facilities, including internet connectivity, are in place,” he said.
The disruption at the Dawki Land Port has raised concerns among stakeholders in the export sector, particularly those dealing with limestone, which is one of the key commodities traded across the India-Bangladesh border from Meghalaya.
Vehicles have been stuck at the land port since last Monday as the Customs Department is refusing to pass manual export bills any longer. The system is meant to operate entirely on the EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) system. Manual billing, which had been used in the past, is now completely disallowed.
