Guwahati, June 14: The much-celebrated border pact between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, hailed as a historic moment, has been overshadowed by a recent outbreak of violence. The agreement, signed in April to resolve a 50-year-old dispute, aimed to bring peace and stability to the region.
However, the killing of two individuals from Assam and subsequent clashes have raised concerns about the effectiveness of the resolution. This article delves into the background of the border dispute, examines the recent violent incidents, and explores the challenges faced in implementing the agreement.
The Historical Border Dispute
1.1 Origins of the Dispute: Tracing the border conflict between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh back to the formation of the North East Frontier Agency and its subsequent transition to a state.
1.2 Unresolved Boundary Issues: Exploring the refusal of Arunachal Pradesh to accept the recommended borders and the transfer of territories without the consent of its people.
1.3 Assam’s Border Disputes: Highlighting the challenges faced by Assam in resolving disputes with neighboring states, including Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh.
Himanta Biswa Sarma’s Efforts:
2.1 Leadership in Border Conflict Resolution: Examining the role of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in leading the efforts to resolve border disputes.
2.2 Previous Clashes: Recounting past violent clashes on Assam’s borders, including the incidents in Mizoram and Meghalaya.
2.3 Hopes for Resolution: Assessing the impact of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by Assam and Arunachal Pradesh and its potential to bring about lasting peace.
Violent Incidents:
3.1 The Panbari-Torajan Shooting: Detailing the shooting incident on June 5, where two individuals were killed and others injured during a plantation drive along the disputed border.
3.2 Perspectives from Assam and Arunachal Pradesh: Analyzing the differing accounts of the incident and contrasting statements from Chief Ministers Himanta Biswa Sarma and Pema Khandu.
3.3 Triggering Factors: Discussing the underlying tensions and grievances that have intensified clashes between residents of Assam and the Adi community of Arunachal Pradesh.
Also Read: Northeast India Experiencing Remarkable Progress, Affirms PM Modi
The Dispute Resolution Process:
4.1 The Namsai Declaration: Explaining the agreement between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh to reduce the number of disputed villages and establish committees for mediation and feedback collection.
4.2 Status of Resolution: Examining the progress made in resolving border disputes, including the acceptance of suggestions made by regional committees.
4.3 Pending Boundary Demarcation: Highlighting the challenges in demarcating boundaries and the need for surveys and final decisions by the regional committees.
Following signing of Namsai Declaration, we are progressing steadfastly in settling border issues with Assam for enduring peace.
Held meeting with Regional Committees of Lower Dibang Valley, East Siang, Kamle, Papumpare and Lower Siang districts to review the progress. pic.twitter.com/c8nptDVNec
— Pema Khandu པདྨ་མཁའ་འགྲོ་། (@PemaKhanduBJP) March 27, 2023
Reactions and Consequences:
5.1 Assam’s Response: Assessing Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s commitment to conducting a police investigation and taking appropriate action.
5.2 Arunachal Pradesh’s Denial: Analyzing Chief Minister Pema Khandu’s claim that the shooting incident was unrelated to the border dispute and was instead a result of a land dispute between individuals.
5.3 Public Outcry and Political Repercussions: Exploring the protests in Assam, criticism of the state government’s handling of border issues, and the impact on inter-state relationships.
The recent outbreak of violence along the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border raises serious concerns about the efficacy of the historic border pact. Despite efforts to resolve the long-standing dispute, the incidents highlight the underlying complexities and challenges in demarcating boundaries and addressing the grievances of affected communities.
It is imperative for both states to engage in peaceful dialogue, ensure effective implementation of the agreement, and take proactive measures to prevent further violence. Only through sustained efforts and genuine collaboration can a lasting solution be achieved, bringing peace and stability to the region.
