SHILLONG: The Hynniewtrep Border Dispute Redressal Forum (HBDRF) has voiced deep concern over renewed tensions between the Khasi-Pnar and Karbi communities along the Meghalaya–Assam border, particularly in Lapangap village. The Forum attributed the unrest to “excessive provocation” by Karbi residents, warning that the situation has become intolerable for the Khasi-Pnar villagers.
Fear Grips Lapangap Farmers
In a statement issued by the HBDRF, the Forum recalled that since the May 21 incident—when Khasi-Pnar villagers from Lapangap uprooted saplings planted by the Karbi Autonomous District Council (KADC)—residents have been living in constant fear. The statement noted that villagers now hesitate to visit their fields due to ongoing threats and harassment.
“Houses have been burned in the area, leading to an environment of fear where locals are apprehensive to go to their fields,” the Forum stated.
The situation has reportedly worsened during the current paddy harvest season. The Forum alleged that Khasi-Pnar farmers have been targeted with slingshots and rubber pellets while attempting to harvest their crops, forcing them to move in large groups for protection.
Farmers are now rushing to harvest their paddy and immediately transport it home in vehicles, avoiding traditional field huts due to fear of attacks. The Forum claimed that the latest clash occurred when villagers, deprived of harvesting their yield, returned to their fields — only to face aggression from Karbi residents.
Forum Blames Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council
The HBDRF has blamed the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) for the continuing hostilities and alleged encroachments along the border. It cited several instances of provocation:
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The erection of an illegal toll gate by the KAAC in Khanduli, which had earlier sparked tensions.
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The launch of a rubber plantation project by the KAAC in Lapangap.
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The construction of an illegal road in Mukroh, previously a flashpoint for violence.
The Forum alleged that these activities form part of a deliberate attempt to “forcibly seize the land of Meghalaya residents.”
Land Claims and Political Allegations
Reaffirming its stance, the HBDRF maintained that villages such as Khanduli, Lapangap, Mukroh, and Psiar fall well within Meghalaya’s boundaries as per the 1951 government notification. It accused the KAAC of attempting to “forcibly annex” these areas into Assam, citing demographic dominance by Karbi residents as a key factor.
The Forum also criticised the Meghalaya Government, alleging that its “weakness and lack of seriousness” have emboldened the Karbi community. It recalled that in the 2013 state elections, border villages including Tahpat had cast their votes in Meghalaya, reflecting their allegiance to the state — a situation that, it said, has since been undermined by “external instigation.”
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Rejection of Karbi Negotiation Terms
The HBDRF further rejected the terms proposed by the Karbi side during a joint meeting between district authorities of both states in Khanduli on October 6. According to the Forum, while the Khasi-Pnar representatives expressed readiness for peace, the Karbi delegation set “unacceptable preconditions,” including:
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Reinstallation of the “illegal boundary pillars” planted by Assam in the 1970s.
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Permission to plant trees in disputed Lapangap areas.
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Mandatory registration of agricultural lands with Assam and payment of land revenue to the KAAC.
“These conditions are completely unacceptable to the residents of Meghalaya,” the Forum said.
Call for State Intervention
The HBDRF urged border residents not to be misled by what it termed the “deceptive tactics” of the Karbi community. It demanded that the Meghalaya Government take immediate and firm steps to maintain peace and protect the lives and livelihoods of border residents. The Forum also appealed to the Assam Government to rein in Karbi groups responsible for creating disturbances.
It further called on the Meghalaya Government to provide financial relief to affected farmers who have been unable to cultivate their lands, while urging unity among the Khasi-Pnar people to safeguard peace and security in the border region.
Security Concerns Raised
Raising serious security concerns, the HBDRF stated that police presence in the area remains inadequate. It claimed that thousands of personnel would be required to ensure safe access for farmers across the vast conflict zone.
Since the disputed area is also claimed by Assam, the Forum noted that Meghalaya Police must coordinate with Assam Police for the safety of farmers — a situation it said undermines the effectiveness of security measures on the ground.
