Tensions Rise Again at Assam-Meghalaya Border Following Arson Incident

Tensions have escalated in Lapangap village along the Assam-Meghalaya border following allegations of arson by miscreants from Assam. Villagers reported that several thatched huts were set ablaze, leading to significant damage to property and crops. The ongoing territorial dispute between the two states has been reignited, with both sides claiming ownership of the contested land. Authorities are working to manage the situation, but the conflict continues to pose challenges for local residents. This article delves into the details of the incident and the broader implications for the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 8, 2025, 11:05 IST

Renewed Conflict in Lapangap Village

Shillong, July 7: The delicate tranquility in Lapangap village, situated on the Assam-Meghalaya border in West Khasi Hills, has been disturbed once more.

Residents from Meghalaya have accused individuals from Assam of setting fire to multiple thatched huts over the weekend.

Deimonmi Lyngdoh, the village head of Lapangap, reported that a thatched house was destroyed by these assailants from Assam. He stated, “Everything was turned to ashes, and our crops suffered damage as well.”

Lyngdoh also mentioned that approximately 15 to 20 individuals set ablaze three additional thatched huts in the nearby Ladaw village on Sunday.

West Jaintia Hills Superintendent of Police Jagpal Dhanoa confirmed the occurrence, stating, “We have been informed by the village headman that a few thatched huts in agricultural areas were burned.”

He noted that these fields have historically been farmed by Lapangap villagers but are located in a disputed area.

The situation has been tense since last week when officials from the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) planted saplings, which were subsequently uprooted by Meghalaya residents.

In response, a wooden structure was reportedly set on fire by villagers from Meghalaya, leading Assam police to deploy tear gas to disperse the crowd.

Authorities from both Assam and Meghalaya intervened last week to ease tensions in these long-contested regions.

Both states assert their claim over the territory—Meghalaya designates it as Block I and maintains historical claims over the land, which is currently administered by the KAAC in Assam.

Block II, another disputed area, is located between Meghalaya’s Ri-Bhoi district and Assam’s West Karbi Anglong district.

These two contentious blocks, along with four others, are set to be discussed in the second phase of border negotiations between the two states.

Due to the ongoing dispute, Meghalaya Police are restricted from entering the contested paddy fields for security operations.

Nevertheless, special permission has been granted to safeguard farmers in the vicinity, allowing state police to patrol up to Jongkasong village, which is just short of the disputed area.