“In 2012, the map we submitted showed Malang Salbari in Assam… So when people now say they want to be part of Meghalaya, we are taking that seriously”
Shillong, June 5: Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has reaffirmed Meghalaya’s strong commitment to resolving the decades-old area of difference with Assam, ensuring that the sentiments and rights of the people are fully protected.
Speaking after a cabinet meeting on Wednesday, on the recent high-level review meeting with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in Khanapara, Assam, he said that the first phase of the border agreement—signed in March 2022—is already showing substantial progress, with nearly 80–90 per cent of the survey work completed in six less-disputed locations: Gizang, Tarabari, Boklapara, Khanapara-Pilangkata, Ratacherra, and Hahim.
“This is a historic exercise we are undertaking. For the first time in fifty years, we are taking concrete steps on the ground to demarcate and bring lasting clarity and peace to our border,” the Chief Minister said.
Regarding areas like Malang Salbari, which remain contentious due to complications from the 2012 report, Sangma highlighted the government’s honest and transparent approach. “In 2012, the map we submitted showed Malang Salbari in Assam, although the village was mentioned in the report. So when people now say they want to be part of Meghalaya, we are taking that seriously, but we must also work within the framework of the documents already submitted,” he explained.
“We are trying to figure out how we can talk to Assam and possibly include Malang Salbari in the survey. It’s not simple, but we are doing everything possible to find a way forward,” he said.
Sangma further informed that the work is underway to sort out remaining concerns in Pilangkata, Maikuli, and Malang Joypur, where sensitivity and legal accuracy are crucial. “We are engaging with local communities, administrations, and regional committees to ensure a solution that is both legally sound and people-centric,” he added.
He praised the cooperation between regional and state-level authorities. “Deputy Commissioners are working out details, and once that’s complete, the regional committees will step in, followed by a Chief Minister’s meeting to freeze the boundary points. We are doing this the right way, step by step,” Sangma noted.
Speaking on government’s thoughtful approach to the emotionally sensitive Block I and Block II regions, Sangma assured, “There are very strong sentiments in those areas. We are aware of this and will move forward carefully, ensuring that the identity, emotions, and rights of our people are never compromised.”
Sangma also reiterated his government’s commitment to peace and stability. “We are constantly monitoring the law and order situation in the border areas. Whenever tensions arise, we intervene immediately to ensure the livelihoods and well-being of people are not disrupted,” he said.
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