Shillong, Sept 9: The Labour Department on Wednesday launched the amended Meghalaya Identification, Registration, Safety and Security of Migrant Workers Rules, 2020 along with an e-payment gateway for fines and an SOP for implementation.
Launching the framework at Tara Ghar, Labour Minister Methodius Dkhar said the 2026 amendment was a milestone to ensure dignity, safety and fair treatment for migrant workers.
He said the system must be practical, transparent and responsive, and stressed coordination among police, district administration, employers, contractors, trade unions and workers.
Dkhar said the department will focus on awareness, facilitation, inspection and enforcement, and asked Deputy Commissioners to work closely with labour officials. He said police must promptly register and investigate complaints of harassment, discrimination or injury against migrants.
He said coordination with source states was needed for identification, verification and emergency assistance, and that employers must ensure safety and benefits. He cautioned that registration should not become a tool for harassment and must respect privacy and dignity.
Principal Secretary Frederick Roy Kharkongor said the amended rules give more teeth to the Act, with roles of labour, district administration and police clearly defined. All migrants and their employers must register and obtain a valid card or licence before work, with fines from Rs 5,000 to Rs 1,00,000 and imprisonment for repeat violations.
Officials said migrant workers contribute significantly in construction, infrastructure, healthcare, hospitality, agriculture and manufacturing, and proper registration will help track and assist them during emergencies.
