By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Sep 20: A Peace Committee comprising representatives from both the Pnar and Karbi communities will be formed to ease boundary conflicts in the Lapangap area along the Assam Meghalaya border, Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar said on Saturday.
The committee is expected to be constituted during a meeting scheduled for September 29-30.
The announcement follows a series of troubling incidents, including the obstruction of Pnar farmers from Lapangap village by groups believed to belong to the Karbi community on Friday. Dhar described the episode as “saddening” and said he had immediately sought updates from the Additional Deputy Commissioner of West Jaintia Hills, who oversees the border.
Tensions had escalated when farmers in the village were reportedly fired upon with air guns by suspected Karbi miscreants while working in their fields.
According to local reports, the farmers were tending to their crops when the individuals suddenly opened fire, heightening fears among the community and raising calls for stronger security.
Highlighting the ongoing nature of border talks, Dhar stated that while discussions continue, the immediate focus must be on ensuring that farmers can safely access and harvest their fields.
He also addressed demands from villagers for increased police presence, noting that the Waheh Chnong had formally requested additional personnel.
The Deputy Chief Minister assured that the matter would be taken up with the Chief Secretary and the DGP to reinforce protection in the area.
