Shillong, June 2: Assam and Meghalaya on Tuesday reached a consensus on cultivation activities in the disputed Lapangap area, with both sides agreeing to maintain peace and allow villagers to continue farming in their respective zones pending a final boundary settlement.
The breakthrough came during a high-level meeting held at the Assam Police Camp, attended by political leaders, senior civil and police officials, and representatives of local bodies from both states.
The meeting was convened following recent discussions between Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma aimed at finding an amicable solution to tensions in the area of difference.
According to the agreement, villagers of Lapangap will continue paddy cultivation in the foothill areas, while villagers of Tahpat will be allowed to carry out plantation of seasonal crops such as banana, pineapple and ginger on the hilltops and slopes.
Both sides also agreed that the issue of permanent boundary demarcation would be taken up by the appropriate state-level committee. Officials from the two states resolved to maintain peace, harmony and law and order in the region and refrain from activities that could escalate tensions.
The meeting assumes significance as an earlier round of talks among village representatives on May 18 had ended without a resolution due to disagreements over plantation activities in the area.
Representatives from Assam included Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council Chief Executive Member and MLA Tuliram Ronghang, MP Amarsing Tisso, Additional Chief Secretary (Home & Political) Ajay Kumar Tiwari, and senior district officials from West Karbi Anglong.
The Meghalaya delegation was led by Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar and included senior state officials, Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council representatives, and district administration and police officers from West Jaintia Hills.
Officials described the consensus as a step towards preserving peace and protecting the interests of local communities while continuing efforts to resolve the long-pending border dispute through dialogue and cooperation.
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