By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, July 3: The Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM) on Friday raised concerns over reports of large-scale cultivation activities in the disputed Lapangap area, warning that the use of heavy machinery has created apprehension among local residents over possible future claims on the land.
KHNAM working president Thomas Passah said cultivation and harvesting activities in the area were presently continuing peacefully, but there was growing discontent among residents over the manner in which farming activities were being carried out.
Citing reports received from the Hynniewtrep Border Dispute Redressal Forum (HBDRF), Passah said the understanding reached during the visit of Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar was to allow members of the Karbi community to undertake cultivation in a limited hill area.
He said residents were, however, concerned over reports that heavy machinery had been brought into the area, raising fears that cultivation could be expanded beyond what was initially understood.
Passah said the concern among the people of Lapangap was that large-scale cultivation, particularly if supported through government or council schemes, could eventually be used to strengthen claims over the disputed land.
Meanwhile, KHNAM and the HBDRF have urged the state government to ensure thorough ground verification of every village falling under Blocks I and II before the Regional Committee prepares its report on the remaining areas of difference along the Meghalaya-Assam boundary.
Passah said a representation was submitted to Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma following the reconstitution of the Regional Committee for the disputed areas.
He said the committee should visit every affected village, interact directly with residents and carry out proper ground verification instead of preparing its findings without extensive field visits.
