Shillong, May 14: The Superintendent of Police of West Jaiñtia Hills district, Jagpal Singh Dhanoa, has asserted that the farmers of Lapangap have legitimate rights over the paddy fields they have cultivated for generations despite the continuing interstate border dispute between Meghalaya and Assam.
Speaking to reporters at Lapangap on Thursday, the SP stated that while the jurisdiction of the disputed area remains under discussion between the two states, there is no ambiguity regarding the traditional cultivation and possession of the land by the residents of the village.
“The ownership and possession are very clear. The people of Lapangap have been cultivating these fields since long ago. However, a few individuals are attempting to disturb peace and prevent the farmers from carrying out cultivation,” Dhanoa said.
He informed that local farmers had gone to the paddy fields to begin cultivation for the season when some individuals from the Karbi side allegedly tried to obstruct their activities.
According to the SP, the Assam Police had initially assured cooperation during the visit. However, certain groups later emerged and allegedly attempted to create disturbances in the area.
Despite the tension, the Meghalaya Police decided not to escalate the situation after representatives from the Assam side requested additional time to hold discussions with local people.
“We chose restraint in the interest of maintaining peace and communal harmony, even though this has caused difficulties for our farmers,” he said.
Dhanoa further stated that the Meghalaya Police understands the sensitivity of the interstate border issue and that any aggressive action in such disputed areas could aggravate tensions further. Therefore, the authorities have adopted a cautious approach focused on dialogue and patience.
He also clarified that there was no direct confrontation between the Meghalaya Police and Assam Police during Thursday’s developments, and both sides were attempting to maintain law and order in the area.
The SP added that the Meghalaya Police would continue monitoring the situation closely and take further decisions based on inputs and developments from the Assam side regarding the continuation of farming activities in Lapangap.
