Assam Government Initiates Talks for Boundary Dispute Resolution
Efforts to Resolve Boundary Disputes
Assam-Arunachal Pradesh boundary
Guwahati, Aug 19: The Assam administration is actively pursuing a permanent resolution to its boundary disputes with neighboring states, with new discussions set to commence shortly.
In an interview, Atul Bora, the Minister responsible for Border Areas Development, revealed that regional committees led by ministers have been established to facilitate negotiations with officials from Arunachal Pradesh. He condemned a recent incident where armed individuals from Arunachal Pradesh fired upon Assamese villagers, urging the Arunachal Pradesh government to take decisive action against those responsible.
Bora highlighted ongoing land encroachment attempts by residents of neighboring states since the formation of new states from Assam. He noted that following the Namsai declaration, many disputed areas with Arunachal Pradesh have been resolved, although conflicts persist in over 52 villages. Discussions between the regional committees of both states are expected to commence soon to address these issues.
The Minister also mentioned that Assam had filed a case regarding its boundary dispute with Nagaland in the Supreme Court back in 1998, which remains unresolved. This ongoing legal matter complicates negotiations between the two governments. Nevertheless, Bora indicated that dialogues with the Nagaland government are ongoing to maintain peace in border regions, with multiple meetings held between the Chief Ministers of both states.
Regarding disputes with Meghalaya, Bora stated that while there are conflicts in 12 areas, six have been resolved, and discussions are underway to settle the remaining disputes. He expressed optimism about reaching agreements with Meghalaya.
Furthermore, Bora noted that the Union Home Minister is also invested in resolving boundary disputes in the region, with several discussions having taken place involving representatives from the Home Ministry.