By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, May 26: Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) president Vincent H Pala on Tuesday criticised the state government’s handling of the interstate border dispute with Assam, particularly in the Lapangap area of West Jaintia Hills, and called the government’s scientific mining policy a failure.
Speaking to reporters, Pala alleged the government has failed to adequately involve local stakeholders—including villagers, traditional heads, and Autonomous District Councils (ADCs)—in discussions regarding the disputed areas.
He stated that ongoing tensions in Lapangap continue to distress residents and argued that meaningful consultation with local communities is essential for any lasting solution. Pala claimed that border agreements are being reached without sufficient participation from those directly affected on the ground, adding that bodies like the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC) must be involved in the resolution process.
The Congress leader further accused both the Assam and Meghalaya governments of a lack of seriousness in resolving disputes involving public interest. He also highlighted the lack of development in border regions, noting that official visits usually occur only after tensions have already escalated.
Pala maintained that unless local stakeholders are fully integrated into the negotiation and implementation processes, border tensions will persist.
‘Failed’ scientific coal mining policy
Pala alleged that the state’s scientific coal mining policy has failed to benefit small miners and the general public.
The MPCC chief claimed that while numerous individuals have applied for mining leases over the years, very few projects have actually become operational. He noted that despite repeated government assurances, implementation on the ground remains stalled, leaving many applicants waiting for clearances.
The Congress leader argued that the concerns of small-scale miners and local communities have been ignored under the present framework. He also questioned whether ongoing mining operations are being carried out strictly according to approved plans and regulations.
Pala further alleged that the government has focused more on announcements and publicity than on effective policy execution.
He claimed that many people dependent on the coal sector continue to face economic hardship as the government’s promises to reopen and regulate the industry remain unfulfilled.
