The next round of Assam-Meghalaya border talks is likely to begin soon after Assam forms its regional committees for the second phase of the boundary settlement. Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar confirmed that he discussed the issue with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma during the Behdienkhlam festival in Jowai.
He urged Assam to complete the committee formation quickly. Meanwhile, Meghalaya has already formed three regional committees to study the six remaining disputed areas. The reports from these committees will help both states move forward with fresh negotiations.
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Key Facts
- Issue: Second phase of the Assam-Meghalaya boundary settlement
- Meghalaya Representative: Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar
- Assam Representative: Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma
- Meeting Venue: Jowai during the Behdienkhlam festival
- Disputed Areas: Six remaining border locations
- Regional Committees: Three committees formed by Meghalaya
- Timeline: Committees will submit reports within 45 days
- Purpose: Support the next round of border negotiations
Meghalaya Pushes for Early Assam Border Committees
Shillong: Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar said on Wednesday that the next round of Assam-Meghalaya border talks could begin soon. However, Assam must first complete the formation of its regional committees.
Dhar shared the update while speaking to reporters. He also said he met Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma during the Behdienkhlam festival in Jowai.
During the meeting, Dhar requested Sarma to speed up the formation of the regional committees. As a result, both governments expect to schedule the next round of discussions once the committees become operational.
Meghalaya Completes Its Preparations
Meanwhile, Meghalaya has already formed three regional committees. These teams will examine the six remaining disputed areas along the interstate boundary.
Dhar heads the West Jaintia Hills Regional Committee. Similarly, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong leads the Ri Bhoi committee. In addition, Deputy Chief Minister Metbah Lyngdoh heads the West Khasi Hills committee.
Committees Will Verify Local Claims
The committees will inspect the disputed villages and verify their claims. They will also study geographical and demographic details.
Moreover, the teams will meet local residents and gather their views. After completing the field visits, they will prepare detailed reports for the Meghalaya Government.
Officials have asked every committee to submit its findings within 45 days. Therefore, the state hopes to complete this stage without delay.
Talks Aim to Resolve Remaining Border Issues
The second phase of the settlement focuses on six unresolved areas along the Assam-Meghalaya border.
Both governments expect the committee reports to support future negotiations. Furthermore, officials believe regular dialogue will help both states reach a mutually acceptable solution.
The two neighbouring states have already resolved several disputed areas during the first phase. Now, they aim to settle the remaining issues through discussions and cooperation.
Questions and Answers
What happened?
Meghalaya said the next round of Assam-Meghalaya border talks will begin after Assam forms its regional committees.
Why are the regional committees important?
The committees will inspect disputed areas, verify village claims, consult local communities, and prepare reports for the negotiations.
How many disputed areas remain?
Six border areas remain unresolved under the second phase of the settlement process.
Who leads Meghalaya’s regional committees?
Sniawbhalang Dhar, Prestone Tynsong, and Metbah Lyngdoh lead the three regional committees.
When will the next border talks begin?
The talks are expected to begin after Assam completes the formation of its regional committees.
Location Context
Assam and Meghalaya share a long interstate boundary in Northeast India. Therefore, resolving the remaining disputes is important for regional stability, better administration, and stronger cooperation between the two states.
