BJP tells govt to shun Assam’s dilly-dallying on border talks

SHILLONG, Dec 26: The Assam government appears disinterested in holding discussions to resolve the second phase of the Assam-Meghalaya boundary dispute. In response, the BJP has urged the Meghalaya government to take a more assertive approach, citing Assam’s apparent lack of willingness to address the unresolved differences in the remaining areas.
BJP spokesperson M Kharkrang stated that Assam has staked claims over the remaining disputed areas and, as a result, is unlikely to initiate discussions to resolve the issue. “Why would they be interested in holding talks for these areas when they have already made their claims?” Kharkrang said, adding that the Assam government has undertaken significant developmental activities in these regions.
“Unless the Meghalaya government takes a firm stance and aggressively pushes for talks, Assam will continue to show little interest in consultations regarding these areas,” he said, emphasising Assam’s strong presence in the disputed regions.
Kharkrang further noted that the first phase of the dispute was resolved in six locations because Assam had fewer claims there and was thus more open to discussions.
Despite the initial enthusiasm shown by both state governments during the first phase of settlement, the second round of discussions has stalled. Assam has shown no inclination to engage with the regional committees meant to visit the disputed areas and consult with local stakeholders, leaving the resolution process at an impasse.