By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, May 20: The Meghalaya government has prohibited tree plantations in the disputed Lapangap area along the Meghalaya-Assam border to avoid complicating future land ownership claims.
Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Home (Police) Prestone Tynsong stated on Wednesday that while tree plantations are barred due to their permanent nature, villagers from both Meghalaya and Karbi Anglong have agreed to continue paddy cultivation in the area.
Tynsong said discussions between the two sides have progressed positively, allowing farmers from both sides to jointly engage in seasonal agriculture. However, he reiterated that long-term plantations remain restricted as they could create further legal and territorial complications.
Meghalaya officials visited the area on Wednesday, noting that local residents have been cultivating the land “from time immemorial,” a factor the state views as evidence of long-standing possession.
According to Tynsong, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has discussed the issue with his Assam counterpart and representatives of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC). Both state governments have agreed to avoid direct intervention, allowing local villagers and traditional heads to resolve the matter through dialogue.
The Meghalaya government is now awaiting formal approval from the KAAC regarding the understanding reached by the villagers. Meanwhile, police deployment in the area will continue until the situation is fully stabilised.
