Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has appealed for calm along the Assam-Meghalaya border, particularly in Lapangap under West Jaintia Hills, where tensions continue following a recent clash that claimed one life.
Sangma said the situation remains fragile, and the government is taking all necessary steps to prevent further escalation.
“Even if adequate security is deployed, such incidents cannot be completely controlled. We don’t want any untoward event that could worsen the situation. Therefore, we have requested villagers to exercise restraint and maintain patience,” he told reporters on Wednesday.
The chief minister noted that the violent incident had taken both states’ police forces by surprise, as it occurred far from the location where officials and residents were engaged in talks.
“This is not the time to provoke or intensify the situation. Peace must prevail while discussions continue,” he added.
Sangma also informed that a series of review meetings were held after the skirmish and expressed hope that the atmosphere in the area would gradually improve.
Residents of Lapangap had earlier met the chief minister, seeking permission to continue paddy harvesting despite the ongoing tensions.
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Sangma said that while the state understands the importance of agricultural activity, the safety and security of citizens must come first.
Meanwhile, Sangma confirmed that the next round of border talks with Assam to settle disputes in the remaining six sectors will be held only after Assam’s Assembly elections, scheduled for early next year.
He said both governments had agreed to wait until the polls concluded before resuming negotiations to ensure an atmosphere conducive to meaningful dialogue.
