Shillong, Jan 16: United Democratic Party (UDP) chief and Assembly Speaker Metbah Lyngdoh has assured support to the state government in its effort to find an amicable solution to end the long pending boundary dispute with Assam.

“I am happy that the government has taken the right steps to find a permanent solution to (resolve) the areas of difference along the inter-state boundary. It clearly reflects the seriousness on the part of the government to address this long pending issue since the state is slated to celebrate its 50th year of statehood,” Lyngdoh said.

Stating that it is unfortunate that after so many years the boundary of the state is yet to be demarcated, the UDP chief suggested that efforts for resolving the inter-state boundary should continue.

“As a party we assure to give our support in this effort of the present government under the leadership of Chief Minister, Conrad K. Sangma. We are also hopeful that the long pending issue will be resolved once and for all in the best interest of the people of both the states,” he said.

“We also understand that the people residing in the border villages are facing problems and difficulties if the boundaries remain unresolved,” he added.

Inclusion of Khasi and Garo languages in Eighth Schedule

Informing that the party is also closely following up on the inclusion of the Khasi and Garo languages in the Eighth Schedule to the Constitution of India, Lyngdoh said, “The party had submitted a representation in this regard that it is time that the Centre should recognise the two major languages of the state.”

“We strongly feel that the state government needs to earnestly purse this matter with the Centre as the state is completing 50 years,” he said.

Increase upper age limit for recruitment

The UDP chief further felt the need for the state government to increase the upper age limit for recruitment in various government sectors.

“With the Covid-19 pandemic in the past two years and even this year, we feel that there is a feeling of insecurity and sense of restlessness among the youth since the age limit is only 32 years,” he said.

He cited that many states in the country have increased the upper age limit to 38 years and even 40 years.

“Therefore, I would like to stress again and urge upon the Chief Minister to look into this matter and consider as one of the important agendas by increasing the age limit from 32 to 37 years,” he said.

Asserting the need to have separate cadre, Lyngdoh said, “We need to have our separate cadre for the State only. We should try to express that the joint cadre with Assam should be done away with and there should be a separate Meghalaya cadre.”

He said the party will also continue to pursue the demand for ILP and other issues.