SHILLONG: The Chief Ministers of Assam Himanta Biswa Sarma and Meghalya Conrad Sangma on Friday decided to adopt a “pragmatic approach” to amicably resolve the longstanding inter-state border dispute between the two states. The chief ministers of both the states met at Shillong Friday evening with Sangma claiming 12 disputed places belonging to Meghalaya while Sarma justified with documents that those places belong to Assam. After detailed discussion, both the governments decided to adopt a “pragmatic approach” and move from status quo to solution, according to an official source. It was agreed to discuss all the 12 places one by one and review claims and if possible, both the chief ministers will visit all the places. Further, Sarma invited his Meghalaya counterpart for second round of discussios at Guwahati on August six. Meghalaya was carved out of Assam and made a separate state in 1972. Sarma later told media persons that it was a very fruitful discussion and “we came to a common understanding that we are firm and committed to resolve the border dispute”. The chief minister also said that in view of contradictory claims, there would be more discussion and review so that a lasting solution can be reached. Sangma thanked his Assam counterpart for his visit and to take forward the dialogue on the border dispute.
Held a meeting with Meghalaya CM Sri @SangmaConrad on Assam Meghalaya border issues in Shillong today. Both sides resolved to find a permanent solution through a pragmatic approach. I have invited Sri Sangma for 2nd round of discussion to Guwahati on 6 Aug 21. pic.twitter.com/FLZm2XjPLy
— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) July 23, 2021
