CBI takes over investigation into Assam-Meghalaya border violence
GUWAHATI: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken over the investigation into the deaths of five Meghalaya residents and one Assam forest guard, which occurred 18 months ago at the disputed border between the two states.
The incident involved a truck allegedly carrying illegally felled timber that was intercepted by Assam forest guards.
Both the Meghalaya and Assam governments had requested the CBI's involvement in February and March of this year, respectively.
Following this, the central agency re-registered two First Information Reports (FIRs) that were initially filed by the Assam and Meghalaya police.
The confrontation took place on November 22, 2022, in Assam’s West Karbi Anglong district when Assam forest department officials intercepted the truck.
According to Assam police officials, a mob from the Meghalaya side subsequently attacked the forest guards and Assam policemen, prompting them to open fire in an attempt to control the situation.
The fatalities included five residents of Mukroh village in Meghalaya’s West Jaintia Hills district and one forest guard from Assam.
The incident highlights the long-standing border dispute between Assam and Meghalaya, which spans 12 contested stretches.
In March 2022, the two northeastern states, in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at resolving disputes in six of these areas.