Nongpoh, Dec 1: Tensions were high in Maikhuli, along the disputed Assam-Meghalaya border, from Sunday evening after a group of people from Assam allegedly painted over the inscription on the MGNREGA foundation stone in the village.
The residents of Maikhuli strongly opposed this act of intrusion, which led to a heated confrontation between people from both states that lasted into Monday.
Magistrates and police rushed to the area to prevent the situation from escalating further and to restore peace in the border villages of Meghalaya and Assam.
According to reports, the immediate trigger for the conflict was the anger among the residents of Maikhuli after a few individuals from Assam were seen painting over the developmental scheme details inscribed on the MGNREGA foundation stone erected by the Meghalaya government in the village.
Speaking about the incident, Ri-Bhoi Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal stated that the confrontation occurred solely because some individuals from Assam had painted over the foundation stone.
He added that upon receiving information, the district administration immediately deployed a magistrate and police personnel to control the situation and prevent any further incidents that could disturb peace and harmony in the border area.
“Any groups or individuals who attempt to create disturbances or instigate unrest in these border villages will be arrested and dealt with as per the law. This is being done to ensure peace and safety for the people living in these areas,” said Baranwal.
He further informed that he has already spoken with the Deputy Commissioner of Kamrup district in Assam to address the issue seriously and work jointly to restore peace in the border villages. Matters relating to boundary settlement, he said, will be decided by the governments of the two states.
He further added that a peace committee has recently been formed to address recurring tensions in this border village. Through this committee, efforts will be made to maintain peace and resolve issues amicably.
