KHNAM has welcomed the start of the second phase of negotiations to resolve the disputed border between Meghalaya and Assam but called on the former’s government not to repeat what happened in the first phase, where Meghalaya gave up its claim to three villages along the West Khasi Hills border.
Khun Hynñiewtrep National Awakening Movement leader Thomas Passah today said, “We urge the government to ensure that all stakeholders, including landowners, be included in the regional committees (that will be set up by both states to take the negotiations forward).”
The areas in phase one were deemed to be less complicated. Those in phase two are “sensitive, high profile and of great importance”, Passah said, adding that the Meghalaya government must heed the sentiments of the people, the will of residents and landowners and understand the geographical importance of the areas in question.
Phase one of the border deal was presented as a fait accompli – only once the agreement was signed by both Chief Ministers did even the Assembly get a chance to look at it.
This time, KHNAM wants the reports of the regional committees to be placed on the floor of the house through a special session before further discussions are undertaken with Assam.
