Deputy CM assures delegation of government intervention and renewed efforts to resolve boundary dispute
Shillong, September 9: Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister in charge of Home, Prestone Tynsong, on Wednesday assured that the State Government would strengthen security arrangements in the Langpih sector following allegations that Assam officials conducted census-related activities in an area claimed by Meghalaya.
Tynsong gave the assurance after meeting a delegation from Langpih in West Khasi Hills, led by Rambrai-Jyrngam MDC Lurshai Kharbani. The delegation sought immediate government intervention following the incident at Noapara Lower Primary School on September 5.
Speaking to the media after the meeting, Tynsong said the Government understood the difficulties faced by residents living along the disputed interstate boundary. He said the matter would be taken up with the Assam Government through established official channels involving the two states.
The Deputy Chief Minister said the boundary dispute must continue to be addressed through discussions at various levels, including meetings between ministers and senior officials of Meghalaya and Assam. He added that the regional committees constituted by the two governments would continue their efforts to arrive at an acceptable settlement.
The delegation also urged the Government to establish a permanent Meghalaya Police outpost, or strengthen the existing security presence, at Noapara to prevent similar incidents and ensure the safety of residents.
Responding to the demand, Tynsong said he would ask the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police to examine the security situation and take necessary steps. He indicated that temporary security arrangements could be put in place until a permanent solution is found.
The Deputy Chief Minister further said that a joint visit by the regional committees of Meghalaya and Assam to the Langpih sector was expected to be undertaken by the end of September.
The delegation alleged that Assam officials had carried out household verification and census-related activities without prior coordination with Meghalaya authorities. Residents reportedly objected to the exercise, maintaining that they belong to Meghalaya and should not be compelled to participate in a census conducted by Assam.
MDC Lurshai Kharbani urged the State Government to firmly safeguard Meghalaya’s territorial interests and expedite negotiations towards a permanent settlement of the long-pending boundary dispute in the Langpih sector.
