Boundary talks between M’laya, Assam stagnate

SHILLONG, July 7: The previously prioritised and vigorously pursued talks to resolve the interstate boundary dispute between Assam and Meghalaya have significantly lost momentum. Enthusiasm from the leadership of both states has visibly waned, leaving the situation fragile and tensions unresolved as the second phase of discussions remains stalled.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has insisted that a robust communication network exists between the two states. However, the regional committees of West Khasi Hills and Ri-Bhoi have been waiting for several months for their Assam counterparts to approve joint inspections of disputed areas. Despite CM’s assurances that discussions are ongoing at various levels, there has been no plausible progress on the ground.
The second phase of the talks is particularly sensitive, involving contentious areas such as Langpih in West Khasi Hills, Block-I, Psiar-Khanduli in West Jaintia Hills, and Borduar, Nongwah-Mawtamur, Deshdoomreah, and Block-II in Ri-Bhoi.
UDP MLA from Nongpoh Mayralborn Syiem, who is also a member of the Ri-Bhoi district regional committee, has urged the Assam regional committee chairman to resume talks and joint inspections promptly.
Cabinet Minister and Chairman of the West Khasi Hills regional committee, Paul Lyngdoh, recently noted the lack of progress in the second phase of bilateral talks due to Assam’s unresponsiveness.
He highlighted that a single inspection is needed in the Langpih sector under his charge, but it has been delayed due to the lack of response from the Assam counterparts.