SHILLONG: The Hill State People’s Democratic Party (HSPDP), a constituent of the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government, has formally congratulated Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma for advancing the next step in resolving the longstanding interstate boundary dispute with Assam.
Expressing optimism as the process enters its crucial second phase, HSPDP President KP Pangniang reiterated that a permanent solution to the border crisis has always been a priority for the party. He voiced hope that the current administration will bring much-needed relief to citizens through the ongoing negotiations.
Central to this phase is the mutual agreement between Meghalaya and Assam to abide by five core principles as terms of reference: historical perspective, local ethnicity, contiguity with the boundary, the perception of residents, and administrative convenience.
Pangniang stressed that applying these principles is essential for a fair and lasting settlement.
As a member of the Regional Committee for West Khasi Hills District, Pangniang emphasized that resolving the remaining six disputed sectors will be much more manageable if these five principles are strictly implemented.
He specifically called on the West Khasi Hills Regional Committee, led by chairman Metbah Lyngdoh, to promptly engage with their counterparts in Assam’s Kamrup District to expedite progress.
Recognizing that the Langpih sector in West Khasi Hills remains one of the most complex areas under dispute, Pangniang maintained that the five core principles will empower local residents to express their demands.
He urged local cooperation and expressed confidence that both regional committees will honor public expectations to achieve a long-awaited, definitive solution.
(4FrontMedia news)
