SHILLONG : A high-level meeting between the governments of Assam and Meghalaya on Tuesday resulted in a consensus on cultivation activities in the disputed Lapangap area, while the issue of permanent boundary demarcation was left for consideration by a state-level committee.
The meeting, held at the Assam Police Camp, was convened as a continuation of the initiative undertaken by the Chief Ministers of both states to resolve issues in the area through peaceful dialogue and mutual understanding.
The Assam delegation was led by Dr Tuliram Ronghang, MLA and Chief Executive Member of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC). The team also included Member of Parliament Amarsing Tisso, senior Home Department officials and KAAC representatives.
Meghalaya was represented by Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, Principal Secretary Frederick R Kharkongor, Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council Chief Executive Member Thombor Shiwat, along with senior civil and police officials from West Jaintia Hills district.
After extensive discussions, both sides agreed that villagers of Lapangap would continue paddy cultivation in the foothill areas of the zone under dispute. At the same time, villagers of Tahpat would continue cultivating seasonal crops such as banana, pineapple, ginger and similar produce on the hilltops and slopes.
On the contentious issue of the permanent boundary, the meeting resolved that the matter would be examined and decided by the appropriate committee at the state level.
The two sides also reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace, harmony and law and order in the area. Both governments agreed to refrain from any activity that could create tension or disturb the prevailing peaceful atmosphere.
The agreement follows an earlier meeting of village representatives held on May 18, 2026, which ended without a resolution due to differences over the nature of cultivation activities permitted in the area.
Officials said the latest consensus reflects the commitment of both state governments and local stakeholders to safeguard the interests of local communities while addressing outstanding issues through dialogue, cooperation and peaceful engagement.