The governments of Assam and Meghalaya have announced plans to erect border pillars in five of the six disputed areas they mutually agreed upon, aiming for completion by August 15. This development marks a significant advancement in resolving a long-standing boundary conflict between the two states. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma made this announcement during a joint press conference in Guwahati.
The two states had previously signed a historic agreement in March 2022 to address disputes in six out of twelve contested areas. “Out of the six areas identified, we aim to erect border pillars in five by Independence Day,” Sarma stated. He noted that one of the areas is still under discussion because Meghalaya is seeking transfer of a village currently within Assam’s jurisdiction. They have assured that an equivalent area will be exchanged with Assam, and a week has been requested for review and response.
Regarding the sixth disputed area, known as Pilingkata, Sarma mentioned that there is a difference in interpretation, and deputy commissioners from both states will convene to discuss the matter further. Chief Minister Sangma confirmed that minor issues are being resolved and expressed optimism about the timely installation of the border pillars. “Resolving the dispute in a phased manner is a significant milestone in our relationship,” he remarked.
In addition, the two leaders discussed collaboration on the 55MW Kulsi multi-purpose project along the interstate border. Sangma called the endeavor a “win-win” for both states, while Sarma highlighted that Assam will be responsible for the irrigation aspect, benefiting a large portion of the Kamrup and Goalpara districts.
Meghalaya, which was established as a separate state from Assam in 1972, has contested parts of the border defined by the Assam Reorganisation Act of 1971. The 2022 agreement, reached in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, resolved issues concerning six of the twelve disputed sites, totaling 36.79 square kilometers-where Assam received 18.46 square kilometers and Meghalaya 18.33 square kilometers.
Discussions on the remaining six disputed areas will proceed, although no deadline for resolution has been set.
Original Source: https://assamtribune.com/assam/assam-mlaya-border-dispute-border-pillars-to-be-erected-by-aug-15-in-5-disputed-areas-1579733
Category: Assam,North East
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Publish Date: 2025-06-03 12:07:00
