By NE NOW NEWS
Guwahati: Delegations from two border villages along the Assam–Meghalaya border have reached a joint settlement on long-standing issues related to land use and farming during a meeting held at a temporary Assam Police camp in West Karbi Anglong district.
The discussion involved officials and representatives from the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council and the Government of Meghalaya, focusing on concerns linked to Tapat village in Assam and Lapangap village in Meghalaya.
The main aim was to sort out agricultural land disputes and support peaceful coexistence between the two communities.
The meeting was led by KAAC Chief Executive Member and MLA Tuliram Ronghang along with Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar.
It was attended by MP Amarsing Tisso, legislators, executive members of autonomous councils, and senior officials from both administrations and police forces.
As per the understanding reached, residents of Lapangap village will continue farming their customary lands in the plains and foothill areas of Tapat, including plots earlier acquired from Karbi landowners.
In return, farmers from Tapat will be allowed to grow seasonal crops such as banana, pineapple and ginger in nearby hill and slope areas without obstruction. Both sides agreed to maintain peace and ensure that no activities disrupt law and order in the border belt.
The agreement was formally accepted by village representatives, with Ronghang and Deputy Chief Minister Dhar signing as witnesses.
After the meeting, Ronghang said the arrangement respects the traditional farming practices of both communities while protecting local interests. He added that the talks were held in a positive atmosphere and reflected a shared intent to prevent future disputes.
Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar termed the development encouraging, noting that it could help improve mutual understanding between the people of Tapat and Lapangap while supporting stability in the region through continued cooperation in farming activities.
Tensions along the Assam–Meghalaya border have surfaced intermittently over land-related matters in previous years.
Officials from both sides said the latest agreement offers a workable arrangement on the ground, enabling villagers to continue age-old agricultural practices even as larger boundary issues remain under government-level dialogue.
The understanding has been welcomed by authorities, who believe it may strengthen cooperation between communities and gradually contribute to more stable and peaceful relations in the border areas over time.