Shillong, Apr 22: The Meghalaya government has approached the Centre seeking compensation for landowners whose properties fall beyond the border fencing along the Indo-Bangladesh boundary, describing the matter as a serious concern with direct impact on people’s livelihoods.
Deputy Chief Minister in charge of Home, Prestone Tynsong, said a significant portion of the international border—estimated at around 50km—still remains unfenced. Efforts are underway to complete the fencing, though several hurdles persist.
Speaking to reporters, Tynsong pointed out that resistance from local landowners and traditional heads has emerged over the proposed alignment of the fencing. In many cases, they fear that agricultural land would end up on the other side of the fence, effectively placing it in “no man’s land.”
He explained that affected residents have demanded compensation not only for land acquired for fencing construction but also for portions that may fall outside the fenced boundary. According to him, this demand has been strongly conveyed to the Centre.
Calling the concern legitimate, Tynsong said the state government has taken up the matter with the Ministry of Home Affairs, urging it to broaden the compensation framework. The request is to include land left outside the fencing, as such losses directly affect the income and sustenance of local communities.
Meanwhile, with the land issue yet to be resolved, the Centre has stepped up security measures along the border. Tynsong noted that stricter directives have been issued to both border forces and state authorities to remain vigilant and prevent any illegal infiltration.
He added that the Border Security Force has also deployed additional personnel in sensitive stretches to strengthen surveillance and security.
