In response to growing safety concerns following a recent criminal incident, the Meghalaya government has announced a new set of regulations requiring mandatory tourist registration across all types of accommodations in the state.
The move comes after the tragic murder of Indore based businessman Raja Raghuvanshi in Sohra, also known as Cherrapunji. The case, which led to the arrest of his wife, her alleged partner, and three others, sparked widespread discussions about tourist safety in the region. In light of the incident, the state government is reinforcing its commitment to creating a safer environment for both visitors and residents.
Under the new regulation, every homestay, hotel, resort, and even private landlords offering short term rentals must register their guests using the Meghalaya Tourism app. This digital system is directly connected to local law enforcement databases, allowing real time updates and monitoring of visitor movements across the state. Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh shared that nearly sixty percent of accommodations have already started using the app, with efforts underway to bring the rest into compliance.
The mandate also extends to individuals renting out private apartments or rooms. They too must ensure that guest details are recorded on the official platform. Non compliance could result in legal consequences, particularly if any criminal activity is linked to unregistered visitors.
Another key measure is the ban on renting private vehicles for self drive tourism within Meghalaya. This decision aims to enhance oversight in remote and environmentally sensitive areas where unregulated tourist activity has previously posed challenges.
In addition, the government is reviewing and strengthening the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act. This legislation, first introduced to regulate the inflow of people into the state, will now be updated to include tighter enforcement protocols and expanded powers for local authorities.
Together, these steps signal a significant shift toward prioritising accountability, security, and sustainable tourism in Meghalaya. While the rules may add an extra step for travelers, they are designed to ensure peace of mind and long term confidence for anyone exploring this beautiful northeastern destination.
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