Meghalaya CM Conrad K. Sangma Assures Resolution on Border Disputes with Assam

CORRESPONDENT

SHILLONG: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma assured the Assembly on Tuesday that his government is committed to resolving the remaining areas of differences with Assam to ensure lasting peace between the two states.

“We will work towards finding a solution and ensure long-lasting peace. Today, we have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and found a solution to (resolving) six areas of differences,” Sangma stated in response to a motion introduced by Nongpoh legislator Mayralborn Syiem in the Assembly.

The Chief Minister acknowledged the complexity of the border issue, noting that many governments in the past did not even want to discuss the border issue, but it is only the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government that took the bold steps to say, “Let us discuss and find a way forward,” he said.

Sangma highlighted that the government has already resolved the Tarabari sector (one of six resolved areas of differences) based on the will of the people. The Assam government has completely backed off after villages under the sector came to Meghalaya. “That is why there are no teachers in the schools (in such villages). Some actions have been taken, and more steps will be taken to address the matter,” the Chief Minister noted.

He further assured the Assembly that the government will take steps on a war footing to ensure that required infrastructure, including road connectivity and all services, is provided to people living in the resolved areas of differences.

Addressing concerns about the alleged use of force by Assam, Sangma called the situation challenging. “For the past 53 years, this kind of situation has been fluctuating and volatile. Having said that, what is important to note is that the process is moving forward in a positive manner, which is something we have not seen in the past,” he remarked.

“These are very complicated problems, but it is only through dialogue that we find solutions,” he added, expressing concern over the unfortunate incidents that have occurred in the border areas.

“These are very complicated problems, but it is only through dialogue we find solutions…,” he stated while expressing concern over sad incidents that took place in the border areas.

He also urged members not to hesitate to inform him of any situation in the border area, and said, “You have a direct hotline with me. In any situation that arises in your constituency, I will be the first person to ensure we can protect our people on the border.”

“With a caveat, there are challenges, and there will always be situations, but whenever a situation arises, we will not shy away, and we will do whatever we can to give protection and safety to our people,” he assured.

Sangma also urged the members to inform him if there is any delay in the construction of the border police outpost, which seeks to increase the presence of forces in the border areas.

 Also read: Meghalaya: CM Conrad K Sangma inaugurates Apollo Trinity Medical Center in Shillong

Also Watch: