JOWAI: Securing legal land documentation and official recognition for border communities is the most effective defense against territorial encroachment by Assam, according to Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC) MDC Moonlight Pariat.
Pariat highlighted the Council’s recent recognition of Elaka Labang Nongphyllut, which covers villages in the disputed Block I area, as a key step to strengthen residents’ legal claims ahead of any formal boundary settlement.
Addressing concerns after a recent Assam Police intrusion into Mukroh village, Pariat said the incident was rooted in a misunderstanding and has since been resolved through dialogue.
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He noted that inter-state border disputes fall under the authority of central and state governments, limiting the District Council’s direct intervention.
Pariat also responded to public criticism about the JHADC’s visibility in border disputes, explaining that the Council often receives information through media rather than direct notifications from residents.
He assured that the JHADC is ready to assist whenever formally informed and remains committed to strengthening land records to protect border communities.
(4FrontMedia news)