VPP criticises govt for delay in resumption of border talks

SHILLONG, Oct 6: The Voice of the People Party (VPP) has questioned the lack of promptness from the government in resuming the second phase of the interstate border talks with Assam to resolve the dispute in the remaining six areas.
Criticising the state government for turning the first phase of the interstate border resolution process into an election agenda to garner votes, VPP spokesperson Batskhem Myrboh said, “It is very important for the government to be truthful to the people and not say things that pleases the people just to get votes.”
The state government, however, explained that the ball was in the Assam’s court.
“Meghalaya government is ready and has been continuously communicating with Assam. We are waiting for confirmation from Assam,” said UDP leader and member of the Ri-Bhoi regional committee, Mayralborn Syiem.
Countering the VPP’s criticism, he said, “It is not that the regional committees are not doing anything. The internal committees within the regional committees are doing their homework. The respective members are on their job and we stand prepared to resume talks with Assam.”
The second phase of negotiations between Assam and Meghalaya, which has been on hold for over a year, is now expected to resume after Durga Puja.
Both governments have assured the public of their commitment to restarting discussions.  However, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma recently stressed the need for caution, noting that the second phase of talks involves more sensitive and complex areas as compared to the first.
In the second phase, both sides are working to resolve the differences in Langpih, Borduar, Nongwah-Mawtamur, Deshdoomreah, Block-I & Block-II, and Khanduli-Psiar.