Guwahati: The recurrence of tensions at Maikhuli village along the Meghalaya–Assam interstate border, despite the area being included in the first phase of the boundary resolution process, has drawn concern from United Democratic Party (UDP) leader and Nongpoh MLA Mayralborn Syiem.
Syiem, a member of the regional committee on interstate boundary resolution, said repeated incidents at Maikhuli were hampering development activities and underscored the need for sustained follow-up by both State governments.
He noted that Maikhuli falls under the first phase of boundary talks in the Pillangkata–Khanapara sector and stressed that unresolved issues must be addressed through continuous engagement.
Calling for a lasting solution, the MLA said the Meghalaya and Assam governments must rely on dialogue, diplomacy and mutual trust, adding that legislators remained vigilant and patient as the resolution process moved forward.
His remarks came a day after fresh violence erupted at Maikhuli on Tuesday following a dispute over the installation of electric poles by the Meghalaya Energy Corporation Limited, which reportedly escalated into a physical confrontation.
The incident once again turned the Ri-Bhoi–Kamrup border stretch into a flashpoint, triggering tension among residents and keeping security forces on alert.
The Meghalaya–Assam boundary has remained disputed since Meghalaya’s creation in 1972, with differences over administrative control and land ownership along several stretches. Although both States signed a memorandum of understanding in 2022 to resolve six of the 12 disputed sectors, including areas in Ri-Bhoi district, sporadic clashes and localised tensions have continued to surface.