Disputed territories with Assam fall under jurisdiction of tribals, must be given to Meghalaya: Khasi Students' Union

SHILLONG: Claiming that Meghalaya's disputed territories with Assam fall under the jurisdiction of tribal Chiefs, the Khasi Students' Union (KSU) on November 26 urged the Centre to allocate these contested areas to the latter state.

Pointing out that Meghalaya shares about 900 kilometres of "porous" border with Assam, the KSU further stated that there has been a contestation of territories along the border region ever since Meghalaya was carved out of Assam in 1972.

"This led to animosity between the citizens of the two states which also, unfortunately cost the lives of many innocents. There are numerous areas of difference with Assam, prominent among them are Langpih, Block I, Block II, Khanduli, Psiar, Moolber, Moojem, Khanapara, Pilingkata, Sabuda, Nongwah-Mawtumur, etc. which are a part and parcel of Meghalaya as they fall under the jurisdiction of of the traditional institutions of the Khasi Chiefs," the KSU said in its missive to Mr. Modi, adding, "the creation of Megha;aya as a state is to fulfill the aspirations of the Khasi-Jaintia Hills and Garo Hills for self-governance, self-determination, tribal empowerment, and development."

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The KSU has contended that since the disputed areas fall under the jurisdiction of the tribal chiefs, therefore, it is imperative that they should fall under the territory of Meghalaya.

"The KSU on the border related issue also seeks intervention from the Centre to sort out the differences between Meghalaya and Assam and to constitute an independent committee so as to bring about a lasting solution to both parties, thereby ensuring safety and development for the people residing along the disputed areas," it added.

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