Shillong, Aug 22: Meghalaya is trying to clear confusion over the Territorial Army after reports about its approval created uncertainty about which Union ministry has the power to allow it.
Director General of Police Idashisha Nongrang today said there is still no clarity. “Reports say Mizoram got approval from the Union Home Minister. But the Territorial Army comes under the Ministry of Defence, not the Home Ministry. I am asking my Mizoram counterpart to confirm what exactly was approved,” she said.
Her remarks came after cabinet minister and government spokesperson Paul Lyngdoh announced on Wednesday that the Centre had sent Meghalaya a note about the process of forming a Territorial Army. He mentioned that Assam and Mizoram already have their own units.
The demand for a Territorial Army in Meghalaya has been growing. The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) had earlier urged the Centre to set up one to help tackle infiltration and illegal migration.
The details of the Centre’s communication are likely to be discussed in the state cabinet meeting on August 26.
Lyngdoh added that while the BSF is working along the borders, support from local villagers is equally important. “The Territorial Army will serve as an additional force,” he said.
