To resolve the longstanding inter-state border dispute between Assam and Meghalaya, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma met Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma in Shillong and took part in a bilateral discussion on Friday (July 23).
During the discussion, Meghalaya Government claimed 12 disputed places belonging to the state. Assam Government also justified with documents that those places belong to Assam.
After discussion, both the governments decided to adopt a pragmatic approach and move from status quo to solution.
“It was agreed to discuss all 12 places one by one and review claims. If possible, both the Chief Ministers will visit all 12 places,” an official statement said.
CM Sarma also invited Meghalaya CM Sangma for second round of discussion at Guwahati on August 6.
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
Chief Secretaries and other senior officials of both the governments were also present in the meeting.
Later talking to the media, CM Sarma said, “It was a very fruitful discussion. We came to a common understanding and we are firm and committed to resolve the border dispute”.
Sarma also said that in view of contradictory claims, there would have more discussion and review so that a lasting solution could be reached.
Meghalaya CM Sangma thanked Assam CM Sarma for his visit and to take forth the dialogue on the border dispute. He said that as it was a long pending issue, it would take some more time as well as consultation for an amicable and accepted solution to both the states.
Also Read | 188 New COVID-19 Cases Detected In Kamrup Metro, Total 1,621 In Assam