Mayralborn sees scope for relook at border MoU

SHILLONG, Aug 3: Nongpoh MLA and a member of the regional committee on interstate boundary row from Ri-Bhoi, Mayralborn Syiem, has discerned that there is still scope and room for reconsideration of the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between Assam and Meghalaya to settle dispute in six out of 12 contested areas along the interstate boundary.
Syiem has also emphasised that it is important to take all stakeholders on board while resolving the vexed Assam-Meghalaya boundary dispute.
Admitting that there is resentment with the boundary pact, the Nongpoh MLA reiterated that there is scope for reconsideration by the Meghalaya and Assam governments since Parliament has the final say on the matter.
Stating that such a contentious issue cannot be resolved at one go, he said there will pros and cons of the decision as it is difficult to meet the expectations of everyone.
Earlier this year, Assam and Meghalaya had reached an understanding on resolving six of the 12 areas of dispute and signed an MoU.
The six areas that were taken up first for resolution are Tarabari, Gizang, Hahim, Boklapara, Khanapara-Pilangkata and Ratacherra. The areas fall in Kamrup, Kamrup (Metropolitan) and Cachar districts of Assam and West Khasi Hills, Ri-Bhoi and East Jaintia Hills districts of Meghalaya.