SHILLONG, July 26: Striving for a resolution to the contentious border dispute between neighbours Meghalaya and Assam, a discussion-cum-inspection in Block-II areas along the interstate border is scheduled for next month by the regional committees of the two states as part of the second phase of the talks.
Informing this, Nongpoh MLA and member of the Regional Committee from Ri-Bhoi district, Mayralborn Syiem, said that the regional committees from Meghalaya and Assam will hold discussions on August 25 and conduct a spot inspection of Block-II areas the next day.
“The Block-II areas in Ri-Bhoi district comprise Desh Doomreah, Baridua and Nongwah Mawtmur, where ground-level inspection will take place,” Syiem said while expressing optimism that a solution will be arrived at.
“We will ensure that whatever we do will be in the interest of the people,” he said, while adding that the recommendations of the regional committee would be based on Para 20 of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution while keeping in mind the administrative convenience, geographical aspects and the willingness of the people.
When asked how the Committee will ensure an objection-free solution, the Nongpoh MLA said that any outcome will have its pros and cons.
“…any bills brought in the state legislature or the Parliament has its pros and cons. Therefore, we have amendments. We have these issues (border dispute) for the past 50 years, so now we have to take call. If we can’t do it now, it will never happen,” he said.
