The Hynniewtrep Border Disputed Redressal Forum (HBDRF) has submitted a letter to Chief Minister Conrad Sangma stating that media reports indicate the government is in the final stages of resolving the second phase of the boundary dispute, with the Regional Committee of Block-1 preparing to submit its findings. However, the Forum has expressed deep concern over the alleged committee’s approach, pointing out that no ground inspection has been conducted to verify facts, which could compromise the legitimacy of the report.
Spokesperson of the organisation Thomas Passah, addressing the media, urged the state government to present the boundary report in the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly before finalising any memorandum of agreement with the Assam government in the presence of the Union Home Minister.
“Today also we have come to the office of the Chief Minister and submitted one memorandum which relates to the boundary disputes between Assam and Meghalaya. We have been reported that the government is finalizing its second phase of interstate border settlement with the government of Assam. We have been informed that the regional committees formed by the Government are reaching the final stage in the second phase of boundary dispute settlement between Assam and Meghalaya. It is also reported that the Regional Committee of Block-1 is finalising its report for submission to the Government. However, we would like to express our concern and dissatisfaction with the operation of the Regional Committee since it is known that the Regional Committee has not done the ground inspection of the area till date, which could jeopardise the actual facts,” the Forum stated in its letter.
“We would like to state that the Forum has compiled facts and documents on the Block-1 area and for the welfare of our people living in the Block-1 areas who have been fighting since 1952 to be part of Meghalaya, we would kindly request for an appointment with you, so that we can place before you all the facts before any decision is arrived,” the memorandum added. The Forum has also sought an appointment with the Chief Minister to present historical facts and documentation related to the disputed Block I region.