By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 6: Nongpoh MLA and member of the Ri-Bhoi Regional Committee on Border, Mayralborn Syiem, expressed optimism that stalled border talks between Meghalaya and Assam will resume once a new government is installed in Assam.
Negotiations to resolve disputes in the remaining six locations have been stalled for nearly two years due to the election process in the neighbouring state. Despite the lull in formal talks, Syiem noted that skirmishes continue to occur along the disputed areas.
“We are optimistic that as soon as the elections are over in Assam, talks will resume to address the long-pending aspirations of the people,” Syiem said. He added that while both state governments are maintaining a vigil to ensure peace, formal dialogue must prioritize a permanent solution once the new administration takes charge.
The Nongpoh MLA also addressed concerns regarding the construction quality of the Nongpoh-Umden-Sonapur road. Dismissing reports of poor workmanship, Syiem stated that Package 1 (0-20 km) is effectively complete with no major issues.
Regarding Package 2, a 38-km stretch from Umden to Sonapur, he confirmed that work is currently underway. “People should inspect the road themselves instead of believing social media clips,” he said. While admitting that the early monsoon might affect the pace of work, he maintained that the contractor has been directed to strictly adhere to all technical specifications.
On the political front, the UDP leader downplayed reports of internal friction within the state’s largest regional party. Responding to rumors of a rift between party president Metbah Lyngdoh and Paul Lyngdoh, Syiem said he was neither aware of nor interested in “groupism.”
Looking ahead to the 2028 Assembly elections, Syiem dismissed suggestions that he had been approached by the NPP.
He stated that his future political course would be decided by his constituents. “Based on feedback from the people, I will decide what is to be done, but right now I am a member of the UDP,” he said, adding that he does not take any political rival lightly.
