Assam and Meghalaya Border Dispute Moves Towards Resolution
Progress in Assam-Meghalaya Border Negotiations
Shillong, Jun 27: The long-standing border conflict between Assam and Meghalaya is nearing a resolution, with plans for a second memorandum of understanding (MoU) to be signed on August 15.
Meghalaya's Tourism Minister, Paul Lyngdoh, announced that the upcoming MoU is anticipated to bring five additional villages within the disputed area of Ri-Bhoi district under Meghalaya's administration.
Lyngdoh emphasized that this development marks a significant advancement in addressing the border issue, attributing the inclusion of these villages to ongoing discussions and negotiations with the Assam government.
This announcement follows recent tensions along the interstate border in the West Jaintia Hills district, where residents of Lapangap dismantled tree plantations established by Assam's Karbi Anglong Autonomous District Council, reportedly breaching a status quo order.
In response to the situation, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong stated that a police team would be deployed to the village to ensure peace.
Lyngdoh further noted that both state governments have made significant strides in negotiations regarding other disputed areas.
"In the Langpih region, a final resolution is within reach, pending a joint inspection by the border committees. We are currently awaiting confirmation from our counterpart in Assam, Chandra Mohan Patowari," he added.
Lyngdoh reiterated the MDA government's commitment to resolving the border stalemate, stating, "This administration is dedicated to safeguarding Meghalaya's territorial rights and ensuring our boundaries are honored."
The border dispute between Assam and Meghalaya spans 12 areas along their 884.9-km inter-state boundary.
In March 2022, both states reached an agreement in New Delhi, with the Union Home Minister present, to settle issues in six areas during the initial phase.
As part of the first-phase resolution, which covered 36.79 sq km of contested land, Assam acquired 18.46 sq km, while Meghalaya received 18.33 sq km.
The remaining six areas, which present more complex challenges, are currently being addressed in the second phase. Notably, Meghalaya was established as a separate state from Assam in 1972.