Assam and Meghalaya Boundary Talks: Next Steps Await Resolution of Initial Areas
Boundary Talks Between Assam and Meghalaya
Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma with Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma (photo - @himantabiswa / X)
Shillong, June 20: Himanta Biswa Sarma, the Chief Minister of Assam, announced that the next phase of boundary discussions with Meghalaya will commence only after the amicable demarcation of the first six identified areas.
During a conference on Friday, Sarma stated that the Survey of India is currently engaged in its tasks concerning the six areas where both states have reached an agreement.
A memorandum of understanding was established in March 2022, addressing six disputed regions, which include Tarabari, Gizang, Hahim, Boklapara, Khanapara-Pillangkata, and Ratacherra.
According to the agreement, the Survey of India is responsible for marking the boundaries between Assam and Meghalaya.
“We should complete the work based on the agreed principles in these six areas. Once the Survey of India finalizes its work and both states establish their borders amicably, we can proceed to the final phases,” Sarma remarked.
There are still six additional areas of contention between the two states, including Langpih, Nongwah-Mawtamur, Deshdoomreah, Block I, Block II, and Khanduli and Psiar.
Sarma mentioned that a temporary resolution was recently achieved regarding a dispute in the Karbi Anglong sector. “Assam is open to further discussions. These matters are sensitive, and we are proceeding with caution,” he noted.
These comments follow a recent meeting in Guwahati, where the chief ministers of Assam and Meghalaya agreed to accelerate the boundary demarcation process and strive for a lasting resolution of the remaining disputes.
Both parties reiterated their commitment to ongoing dialogue concerning the long-standing border issues.