Ahead of the chief ministers of Assam and Meghalaya joint visit to Langpih, members of the regional committees constituted by both the states today visited Upper Tarabari, Gamerimura, Dobakdrop and other villages along the interstate border areas of Assam and West Khasi Hills district.
Cabinet Minister Renikton Lyngdoh Tongkhar, who heads the West Khasi Hills panel, along with Assam cabinet minister, Atul Bora interacted with the villagers and representatives of local organisations to take their views and suggestions.
The ministers said that the inspection to these villages was held as part of the commitment in settling the border dispute in accordance with the decisions taken at the chief-ministerial level meeting.
People from eight villages under Tarabari also took part at a meeting wherein they expressed their desire to remain with Meghalaya and expect the governments of both the states to consider their aspirations.
Bora and Tongkhar both informed the villagers about the inspection and said a report will be placed before their respective chief ministers wherein the governments of both the state would find long lasting solutions to the inter-state dispute amicably.
Tongkhar said a report of today’s visit will be submitted to Chief Minister, Conrad Sangma prior to the Langpih visit.
The minister was accompanied by Nongstoiñ MLA, Macmillan Byrsat, Rambrai Jyrngam MLA, Kimfa Marbaniang and district officials.
It may be mentioned that Assam and Meghalaya have mutually agreed to find amicable solutions to disputes in six of the 12 areas of differences that are Tarabari, Gizang, Hahim, Boklapara, Khanapara-Pilangkata and Ratacherra – falling under West Khasi Hills, Ri Bhoi and East Jaiñtia Hills districts in Meghalaya and Cachar, Kamrup Metro and Kamrup districts in Assam.