Historic Milestone Reached: First Border Pillar Marks End of Assam-Arunachal Dispute, Says CM Sarma
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Guwahati, Feb 23 (NationPress) Assam's Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, heralded the establishment of the inaugural border pillar between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh as a significant achievement, signaling the resolution of a long-standing dispute concerning the inter-state boundary.
In a message shared on X, CM Sarma noted that the border pillar was erected in the Pakke Kesang district of Arunachal Pradesh, following the signing of the Namsai Declaration.
He characterized this development as “truly historic,” emphasizing that it demonstrates a mutual commitment from both states to address lingering issues through collaboration and dialogue.
“The establishment of the border pillar embodies clarity, partnership, and trust between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh,” remarked CM Sarma. He further added that this initiative would foster enduring peace and administrative stability for border communities that have been impacted by ambiguity for many years.
The Chief Minister pointed out that the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh boundary dispute spanned multiple areas across various districts, often creating confusion regarding jurisdiction, which hindered development initiatives and service delivery in border regions.
The Namsai Declaration, which was previously signed with the involvement of the Union Home Ministry, sets forth a framework for a mutually agreed-upon and community-focused resolution.
CM Sarma stated that the agreement emphasizes historical documentation, ground realities, and the well-being of local populations, ensuring that the resolution is both sustainable and acceptable to those residing near the border.
He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for promoting cooperative federalism and enhancing unity among northeastern states. “Under the guidance of Adarniya Narendra Modi ji, the Ashtalakshmi region is progressing as a unified entity,” the Chief Minister remarked.
CM Sarma also expressed appreciation for the support of Union Home Minister Amit Shah in facilitating this process and thanked Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu for his collaboration.
He stated that well-defined boundaries will facilitate accelerated development, enhanced law enforcement, and improved coordination between the two states. He reiterated Assam's commitment to amicably resolving all inter-state matters, exemplifying a dialogue-driven governance model in the Northeast.
Importantly, the Namsai Declaration, reached after extensive discussions between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, signifies a pivotal advancement in resolving one of the oldest inter-state boundary conflicts in the Northeast.
This agreement outlines mutually agreed principles for demarcation, relying on historical records, administrative boundaries, and ground realities, while prioritizing the interests of border residents.
By providing a structured and consensus-based strategy for resolving disputed areas, the declaration aims to achieve lasting peace, administrative transparency, and uninterrupted development in border regions that have long endured uncertainty.