Dialogue key to lasting peace along Assam-Meghalaya border: Sangma

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Tuesday said the situation in the areas along the state's border with Assam is under control, but cautioned that sporadic incidents may persist because of long-standing disputes.

Calling the boundary tensions ''a complex issue with a deep-rooted history'', Sangma said that while occasional confrontations occur, the government, with public support, has managed to ease tensions ''to some extent''.

The dispute between Assam and Meghalaya dates back to the Assam Reorganisation (Meghalaya) Act of 1969 and involves 12 contested stretches along the 884.9-km boundary.

''The governments of both states have taken steps to resolve these disputes through dialogue. In 2022, Assam and Meghalaya signed MoUs to demarcate six of the disputed areas, a significant step towards peace,'' Sangma told reporters.

He said installation of boundary pillars in places such as Hahim was part of implementing these agreements.

Regional committees have been formed to address the remaining six areas of difference, aimed at engaging local communities and identifying mutually acceptable solutions, he said.

''These committees will ensure dialogue continues and that disputes are addressed in a systematic and peaceful manner,'' the chief minister said.

Noting that the upcoming elections in Assam have created a temporary lull in tensions, Sangma said his government was working to build on this period of calm.

''The matter is complicated, and we want to engage with people at the right pace and in the right manner. Our aim is to ensure long-lasting peace and allow people in these areas to live without fear,'' he added.

(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)