Shillong, Jun 2: A high-level meeting involving political representatives, senior civil and police officials and representatives of the concerned local bodies from Meghalaya and Assam was held today at the Assam Police Camp to deliberate on issues relating to Lapangap, a disputed village on the inter-state border that has witnessed an increase in tensions of late.
Continuing on from talks held between the Chief Ministers of the two states, the meeting brought together political leaders, senior officials and local representatives to facilitate consensus-building on the ground.
Meghalaya was represented by Deputy CM Sniawbhalang Dhar, Principal Secretary FR Kharkongor, Commissioner and Secretary Cyril VD Diengdoh, JHADC CEM Thombor Shiwat and others.
Following detailed deliberations, it was agreed that the villagers of Lapangap shall continue paddy cultivation in the foothill areas of the area of difference, while the villagers of Tahpat shall continue plantation of seasonal crops such as banana, pineapple, ginger and other similar crops on the hilltops and slopes. It was further decided that the matter relating to permanent boundary demarcation in the area of difference shall be considered and decided by the appropriate committee at the state level.
Both sides shall maintain peace, harmony and tranquility and shall refrain from any activity that may create disturbance or affect the prevailing law and order situation, a press release from the Meghalaya government stated.
An earlier meeting of village representatives held on May 18, facilitated by the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police of West Jaintia Hills, was inconclusive due to differing views regarding the nature of plantation activities to be permitted in the area.
“The consensus reached today reflects the commitment of both state governments and local stakeholders towards maintaining peace, safeguarding the interests of local communities and resolving outstanding issues through dialogue and cooperation,” the release concluded.
