‘Meghalaya government resolute on resolving border issues with Assam’
SHILLONG: Meghalaya government is determined to resolve the boundary issues that the state has with neighbouring Assam.
This was stated by Meghalaya chief minister Conrad Sangma.
Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma said that his government is determined to resolve border disputes with Assam.
He mentioned that the Meghalaya government had urged its Assam counterpart to intervene and withdraw the FIR against four villagers related to the destruction of a foundation stone, as directed by the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) at Jatalong village under Block-II.
Additionally, action against illegal tax collection within Meghalaya territory has been assured.
Responding to a motion by Congress MLA from Mawhati, Charles Marngar, the Meghalaya chief minister reiterated the government’s commitment to resolving differences between Assam and Meghalaya amicably.
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“We are determined to move forward and reach a conclusion. We all need to work together and address these issues positively and constructively,” he emphasized.
"As a government, we have been engaging with Assam counterpart to address various challenges and concerns of our people along the Assam–Meghalaya area of differences. There has been incident of conflict, which we have to deal with but with a positive approach both the government has remained committed to resolve the concerns amicably," the Meghalaya CM said.
Regarding the Jatalong incident, the Meghalaya CM clarified that the FIR was filed by the ranger of the KAAC, not the Assam government.
“There was a warrant of arrest against the four local villagers. Accordingly, the chief secretary had written to the chief secretary of Assam, requesting the withdrawal of cases against these individuals to initiate discussions,” he explained.
“I personally spoke to the chief minister of Assam, urging for a resolution to avoid escalating the situation. He agreed, giving a positive response, and assured to address the matter. I officially acknowledge the positive response from the government of Assam and especially the chief minister,” he added, expressing hope for a swift resolution.
Regarding illegal tax collection, the Meghalaya chief minister clarified that such activities do not occur in Meghalaya-administered areas due to the inclusion of broomsticks under agroforestry products by the MDA-I government.
“If there are such cases, we can address them with the government of Assam,” he concluded.