Situation in Umwali village, WKH is under control: CM

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaFebruary 24, 2020

CM-level talks on boundary issue next month

The chief ministerial level talks between Assam and Meghalaya to discuss the long pending interstate boundary dispute is likely to take place after budget session of Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, which is scheduled to commence from March 13 to March 26.

Informing that the situation in Umwali village near Langpih in West Khasi Hills District where fresh tension have erupted recently – is under control, chief minister Conrad K Sangma told reporters that he had taken up the matter with Assam chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal.

He also admitted that the talks at the level of two chief ministers have been pending for a very long time.

“During our conversation (yesterday), I have also stressed on the point that the two of us meet. Assam CM expressed desire to meet at the earliest. Since the budget session is coming, the meeting will place after the budget session,” Sangma said.

He however said the dates have not been fixed yet but both the states are working towards it.

Tension erupted in Umwali village following stiff opposition from the villagers against the attempt by the Assam police to set up a police outpost in the area. The decision of Assam government to deploy army in the border has also been opposed by the villagers.

Stating that law and order is a top priority of his government, chief minister said, “The situation in Umwali village is under control. In last few days, the home minister and myself has been closely watching and monitoring the situation.”

“In my discussion with the Assam CM, I have informed him about the different situation that took place and I mentioned that the status quo should be maintained.”

“But let me assure the people in the area and the state as whole that the state government including myself and home minister are monitoring the situation,” he reiterated.

The chief minister also informed that both the DGs of the two states have also been asked to retain their forces so that the situation does not escalate.

He said that the deputy commissioners and SPs of West Khasi Hills and Kamrup District are talking to each other to ensure normalcy is restored. “Talks at the level of the chief secretaries have also taken place,” he said.

Meanwhile, members of different pressure groups have also visited Umsawli village to express solidarity with the border residents.