GUWAHATI: The border dispute between Meghalaya and Assam moved a step towards resolution as the regional committees of both states convened in Guwahati on August 8.
Led by Cabinet Minister Paul Lyngdoh, the West Khasi Hills Regional Committee engaged in deliberations with Chandra Mohan Patowary, Assam’s Minister in charge of Forests and other departments, who also chairs the regional committee of Kamrup district.
Considering the focal point of the dispute lies in the Langpih sector of the West Khasi Hills, following the meeting, Minister Lyngdoh unveiled a series of initiatives outlined by the regional committee. The most prominent among these is a joint visit to the Langpih sector by committees from both states. This visit aims to engage with stakeholders, including local representatives, traditional leaders, and the public, in a collective effort to address the issues surrounding the Langpih sector.
An air of optimism permeated the discussions, with Lyngdoh expressing confidence that the problems associated with the Langpih sector would soon be consigned to history. The West Khasi Hills Regional Committee proposed a two-fold approach to the resolution process.
Firstly, both sides will compile a list of “problem-free areas”, he said. He further added that these are regions where inhabitants unequivocally express their desire to remain part of Meghalaya.
The criteria for inclusion encompass consistent voting as registered Meghalaya voters, evident inclination towards Meghalaya’s jurisdiction, and being beneficiaries of the state’s developmental endeavours over several decades. Minister Lyngdoh revealed the committee’s hope that these areas can be legally transferred to Meghalaya, setting the stage for swift resolution.
Secondly, the meeting witnessed consensus on addressing “problem areas”. The parties agreed to collaboratively devise mutually acceptable solutions for these regions. A dedicated meeting is slated to take place in Shillong after August 15 to further this dialogue.
The gathering saw the attendance of senior government officials from both Assam and Meghalaya. Notable figures included deputy commissioners and superintendents of police from the districts, alongside representatives from the Forest Department.
