Days after being reassigned the Border Protection and Development portfolio, Minister Atul Bora on Saturday, May 16, chaired a high-level review meeting at Janata Bhawan, where he directed officials to pursue peaceful resolution of long-standing boundary disputes through talks and mutual understanding. Bora said discussions with neighbouring states are already underway and have met with encouraging cooperation, stressing the government’s commitment to negotiation as the primary route to settle differences.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Bora said, “The process of resolving border disputes through dialogue and discussions is continuing. We have received cooperation from all the neighbouring states, and steps are being taken to resolve the issues amicably.” He underlined that the Border Protection and Development Department will prioritise the interests and welfare of people living in border areas while seeking peaceful solutions.
Bora’s remarks came against the backdrop of renewed tensions along the Assam–Meghalaya border, notably in the Lapangap area, where protests by local residents earlier this week prompted deployment of multiple police platoons, including Special Force‑10 commandos. Security reinforcements followed complaints from villagers who alleged repeated harassment by persons from Assam’s Karbi Anglong district, which they said has prevented them from carrying out agricultural activities.
The dispute over villages near Lapangap has persisted for decades. Meghalaya refers to the region as Block I and claims historical ownership, while the area is currently administered by the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) in Assam. Bora said Lapangap, along with five other contested locations, is expected to be addressed in the second phase of border talks between the two states.
On broader governance, Bora said implementation of the Assam Accord will remain a priority for the BJP‑led NDA government during its third term, with systematic attention to the Assam Accord Implementation Department’s progress. He also announced that a detailed 100‑day action plan for the Panchayat and Rural Development Department was prepared soon after he assumed charge, stressing village development “as envisioned by Mahatma Gandhi.”
Highlighting rural welfare measures, Bora said ensuring housing for every family-especially those in tea garden areas-and advancing self‑help groups are major priorities. He asserted there would be no shortage of funds for development, noting initiatives such as VB‑GRAMG alongside MGNREGA as new opportunities for strengthening rural economies. He also praised the Excise Department’s revenue performance in the previous financial year and said new strategies would be adopted to boost efficiency and collections. Reiterating inclusive governance, Bora affirmed that safeguarding minority communities and promoting their welfare would continue to be a primary responsibility of the government.
Original Source: https://assamtribune.com/assam/border-talks-with-neighbouring-states-progressing-positively-atul-bora-1611711
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Publish Date: 2026-05-16 18:19:00
