How Did CM Sangma Respond to the Clash at the Assam-Meghalaya Border?
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Synopsis
In the wake of a violent clash at the Assam-Meghalaya border, CM Sangma's appeal for peace and dialogue highlights the ongoing tensions between these two states. With a commitment to resolving longstanding disputes, Sangma urges citizens to engage peacefully, emphasizing the importance of communication and understanding in addressing contentious issues.
Key Takeaways
- CM Sangma calls for peace amidst border conflict.
- One fatality reported from the clash.
- Dialogue emphasized as a means to resolve disputes.
- States have a history of tensions during harvesting season.
- Six of twelve border disputes already resolved.
Imphal, Oct 10 (NationPress) Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma issued a call for peace and restraint on Friday following a violent confrontation along the Assam-Meghalaya border that resulted in one fatality and multiple injuries.
During a press conference in Imphal, during his two-day visit to Manipur, CM Sangma described the incident that occurred on Thursday as “deeply unfortunate”, highlighting the long-standing border disputes between the two neighboring states.
“The Lapangap area has been a contentious point between Assam and Meghalaya. We have been actively engaged in discussions with Assam to seek a resolution. It is regrettable that such an event transpired. I urge everyone to refrain from violence and to address issues via dialogue,” stated the CM.
The clash erupted in Assam’s West Karbi Anglong district when residents from Meghalaya allegedly began harvesting paddy in a disputed area.
Villagers from Tapat, under the Hamren police station, opposed the activity, resulting in a confrontation that escalated into violence. Tragically, one individual from the Karbi community lost their life, and several others sustained injuries.
CM Sangma acknowledged that both state governments had foreseen potential unrest during the harvesting season and had deployed security personnel in the region. “Police from both sides had urged the populace to exercise restraint. Unfortunately, despite these precautions, a clash ensued, leading to this tragic loss of life,” he remarked.
The Chief Minister noted that similar tensions have frequently arisen during the farming season, as farmers from both states operate on disputed territories.
“Every year, cultivators from both states encounter challenges during planting or harvesting. We strive to resolve such matters locally through discussions and by engaging community leaders and peace committees,” he added.
He reaffirmed his government’s dedication to peacefully resolving the longstanding border conflict between Assam and Meghalaya, which involves disputes in 12 regions.
“We have successfully settled six of these through mutual agreement. No administration in the past fifty years has undertaken such initiatives. We are actively working to resolve the remaining six,” he stated.
In urging for calm, CM Sangma called on citizens to promote peace and collaborate with authorities. “If the community engages peacefully, the government will be better positioned to deliver lasting solutions,” he said.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize CM Sangma's appeal for peace amidst rising tensions along the Assam-Meghalaya border. His call for dialogue rather than violence reflects a responsible leadership approach aimed at resolving a complex and longstanding dispute. It is essential for citizens to engage constructively with authorities to foster harmony and stability in the region.
NationPress
10/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the recent clash along the Assam-Meghalaya border?
The clash was triggered when residents from Meghalaya began harvesting paddy in a disputed area claimed by both Assam and Meghalaya, leading to violent confrontations.
How many fatalities were reported from the clash?
One person from the Karbi community was killed during the violent clash.
What measures have been taken by the governments to prevent such clashes?
Both the Assam and Meghalaya governments had deployed security forces in the area to maintain peace during the harvesting season.
What is the historical context of the border dispute between Assam and Meghalaya?
The border dispute between Assam and Meghalaya involves several areas of contention that have persisted for decades, complicating relations between the two states.
What is CM Sangma's stance on resolving the border issues?
CM Sangma emphasized the importance of dialogue and has expressed a commitment to resolving the border disputes peacefully, having already settled six out of twelve contentious areas.
