1. Mizoram and Assam’s Chief Ministers, Lalduhoma and Himanta Biswas Sarma have made strides in resolving their border dispute through collaborative efforts.
2. Their meeting in Guwahati underscored the priority of maintaining peace along the borders during ongoing discussions, highlighting a commitment to peaceful dialogue.
3. The agreement marks a significant step forward in addressing the long-standing issue between the two northeastern states.
Guwahati, Feb 09: Mizoram and Assam have taken a significant step towards resolving their long-standing border dispute, with Chief Ministers Lalduhoma and Himanta Biswas Sarma agreeing to collective efforts for a peaceful resolution.
During a meeting in Guwahati, both leaders emphasized the importance of maintaining peace along the borders while border talks are ongoing, signaling a commitment to peaceful dialogue.
Sarma assured Lalduhoma of sending the minister in charge of the border to Mizoram once the current budget session of the Assam assembly concludes, indicating a proactive approach to address the issue.
Bonding over breakfast!
In my first one to one meeting with Hon’ble Chief Minister of Mizoram, Pu Lalduhoma after his emphatic victory in the Vidhan Sabha elections, I once again offered my heartiest congratulations.
We engaged in various discussions to ensure continued peace… pic.twitter.com/W9d3rZWpM5
— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) February 9, 2024
The border dispute, rooted in colonial boundaries, has been a persistent challenge, with conflicting claims over specific territories between Mizoram and Assam.
Mizoram asserts its rights over a 509 square mile area of the inner line reserved forest, designated in 1875 under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR) 1873.
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In contrast, Assam regards the border delineated in a 1933 map by the Survey of India as its constitutional boundary.
The absence of ground demarcation exacerbates the issue’s complexity, leading to periodic tensions and sporadic incidents.
The dispute escalated in July 2021 when clashes erupted between police forces of both states at the inter-state boundary, resulting in casualties. The tragic incident underscored the urgency of finding a peaceful resolution to the dispute.
The recent meeting between Lalduhoma and Sarma reflects a positive development towards diplomatic dialogue and cooperation in addressing the border issue.
Efforts to resolve the dispute through peaceful means underscore the mutual commitment of Mizoram and Assam to regional stability and harmony.
It sets a constructive precedent for future engagements aimed at fostering amicable relations between the two northeastern states.
