SHILLONG: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has announced that he will meet with his Assam counterpart, Himanta Biswa Sarma, before May 30 to discuss and resolve the ongoing unrest and tensions in Lapangap village.
Speaking to media persons, the Chief Minister stated that he has already initiated talks with the Assam Chief Minister to address the issue. Sangma shared that during their recent conversation, Sarma informed him of a scheduled visit to Delhi after May 30.
Since both Chief Ministers face busy schedules after the end of the month, the Assam Chief Minister suggested that they meet prior to May 30 if possible.
Consequently, Sangma indicated that he may adjust his official programs to ensure the high-level meeting takes place within the next few days, warning that missing this window could significantly delay the discussions.
The Chief Minister emphasized that he maintains an excellent working relationship with Sarma, and they continuously strive to collaborate for the welfare and benefit of the people in both states.
Regarding the Lapangap crisis, Sangma expressed strong optimism that both leaders can work together to resolve the dispute.
He appealed to the local residents of the area to cooperate with the government, reassuring them that the administration is fully committed to finding the best possible solution.
Sangma further disclosed that he was away in the Garo Hills region when the unrest broke out in Lapangap. However, despite his absence from the capital, he immediately coordinated with the Superintendent of Police, the West Jaintia Hills district administration, the Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC), the local MLA, and the Assam Chief Minister to control the situation and restore peace.
Acknowledging that the issue is highly sensitive and complex, Sangma noted that the CEMs of the respective District Councils have extended their full cooperation, though certain ground issues still require detailed adjustment.
He assured that the government is fully aware of every development in Lapangap and remains in constant communication with all stakeholders. He added that the district administration, local MLA, and council leaders are in continuous dialogue and working cohesively, with the hope of reaching a timely resolution.
It may be mentioned that despite a recent peace meeting held between the Karbi community from Tapat and the Khasi residents of Lapangap, no concrete decision has been reached yet to allow the local farmers to resume cultivation in their fields, as disruptions from the Karbi side reportedly continue.
