Shillong, July 29, 2025 — Tensions continue to rise along the inter-state border at Lapangap in West Jaiñtia Hills, where repeated incidents of alleged aggression by Karbi individuals have left Pnar farmers unable to access their farmlands during the crucial paddy planting season.
A ground report reveals that vast stretches of farmland in Lapangap now lie abandoned, as villagers remain too fearful to carry out their daily agricultural activities. The situation has deteriorated sharply since early June, culminating in a major confrontation on June 25, 2025.
Speaking to Shillong Today, Lapangap village headman Ma Deibormi Lyngdoh voiced deep concern over the escalating threats.
“This is the second major incident,” he said. “In 2024, one of our youth lost his life while working in the fields. The government has failed to ensure our safety.”
The latest flashpoint occurred when a group of Pnar villagers visited Loom Umchyrngan, an area they say traditionally belongs to Lapangap but has allegedly been encroached upon by the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) for afforestation activities. According to villagers, the land was used without any consultation or consent from the Lapangap Dorbar Shnong.
During the confrontation, Assam Police reportedly used tear gas to disperse the Pnar villagers. Eyewitnesses also allege that Karbi individuals descended into the area, destroyed standing crops, and even set fire to cultivated plots—a move widely condemned by locals as a deliberate act of provocation.
“This is not just about land—it’s about our right to live and farm in peace,” said Ma Lyngdoh. “Our people are scared to return to the fields. Meanwhile, the state government remains silent and sluggish in resolving the issue.”
The repeated incidents and lack of visible government intervention have left the residents of Lapangap feeling isolated and vulnerable.
“Officials sit comfortably in the Secretariat while we live in fear,” the headman added.
The ongoing land dispute and increasing hostilities have sparked widespread concern, with local leaders warning of further escalation unless both the Meghalaya and Assam governments take decisive steps to resolve the border issue and ensure the safety of affected communities.
Residents and local leaders are now urgently calling for:
Immediate intervention to de-escalate tensions
Security arrangements to protect farmers
A long-term, negotiated settlement of the border dispute
As the planting season slips away and farmlands remain untended, the people of Lapangap are left waiting—not just for peace, but for the promise of governance that protects every citizen.
