Shillong, Feb 23, 2026: During the ongoing Budget Session of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, Mawsynram MLA Olan Sing Suin raised serious concerns over the movement of wild elephants and the increasing incidents of human-elephant conflict in his constituency.
The issue was highlighted during Question Hour following a discussion initiated by Rupert Momin regarding wildlife species present in the state.
Elephants Stranded Near Border Areas
Speaking in the House, Bah Olan Sing Suin informed members that a herd of elephants has been residing in the plains and border areas since January 25. He stated that the animals have been repeatedly destroying standing crops, causing significant distress and financial losses to farmers.
He recalled previous incidents where residential houses were damaged, creating tension and near confrontations between villagers and the herd. Farmers from the affected areas have approached him multiple times seeking urgent intervention.
The MLA said he had written to the concerned forest authorities earlier, following which the Chief Conservator of Forests deputed teams to monitor and manage the situation.
Bah Suin further pointed out that the elephants had attempted to cross into Bangladesh but were unable to do so due to border fencing. As a result, the herd remains confined to the plains within Indian territory, increasing pressure on agricultural lands and settlements.
He expressed apprehension that with the upcoming crop season, farmers could once again face heavy losses if preventive and mitigation measures are not strengthened.
The legislator urged the government to extend the benefits of the Elephant Project and implement effective strategies in the affected areas to safeguard both livelihoods and wildlife.
Government Assures Action
Responding to the concerns, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma assured the House that the government would examine the details provided by the MLA.
Acknowledging that similar incidents have been reported earlier, the Chief Minister said appropriate steps would be taken to protect people and crops while ensuring the safety and conservation of elephants. He affirmed that necessary coordination with the Forest Department would be undertaken to address the matter comprehensively.
The issue once again underscores the growing challenge of human-elephant conflict in Meghalaya, particularly in border and plain areas where habitat fragmentation and fencing have disrupted traditional wildlife migration routes.
