In a recent address to the residents of Athiabari, situated along the Assam-Meghalaya border, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma applauded his Assamese counterpart, Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma, lauding him as a pragmatic leader with a deep understanding of the Northeast region’s intricacies. Sangma commended Sarma’s commitment to addressing the longstanding border dispute between the two States.
Highlighting the progress made under Sarma’s leadership, Sangma noted the successful integration of numerous villages, formerly part of Assam, into Meghalaya. Despite the complexities involved, Sangma reassured the public that negotiations are ongoing, with concerted efforts to accommodate the aspirations of villages seeking to merge with Meghalaya.
He pledged to continue discussions with the Assam Government to achieve maximum resolution.
Conrad K Sangama, who is NPP national president, took part in an election rally at Athiabari village in West Khasi District along the Assam-Meghalaya border on Thursday.
Hundreds of people from the bordering area took part, and the meeting started with the traditional Garo Dance ‘Wangala’ and the welcome addressed by MDC Bajop Pyngope.
During the election rally, Sangma said many villages currently on the Assam side of the border are seeking inclusion with Meghalaya and his government is aware of the demand which is why a joint demarcation survey has been initiated to bring about a solution.
The CM said this while campaigning for NPP candidate Dr Ampareen Lyngdoh where renowned culinary chef and runner-up in last year’s MasterChef India competition, Nambie Jessica Marak joined the party.
Sangma added, “Assam CM Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma is a practical man, who knows the Northeast and agrees that this problem needs to be resolved. He has worked hard in that direction which is why a substantial number of our villages which were previously on the Assam side have now been merged with Meghalaya.”
“It is quite a complex problem but we have not given up. Negotiations remain open and our endeavour is to ensure a maximum number of villages that want to merge with Meghalaya get that opportunity. We will take it up with the Assam government for maximum resolution,” assured the CM in his address to the public of Athiabari along the Assam- Meghalaya border.
When questioned about the formidable opposition to the NPP in the Lok Sabha Election, CM Sangma asserted the NPP stands as a robust Opposition against all political adversaries. He stated, “While various political parties may oppose the NPP in different constituencies, it remains a formidable force against all.”
“We are not complacent in the Lok Sabha election; our focus is on diligent efforts to secure victory in both the Tura and Shillong Lok Sabha seats,” insisted CM Sangma.
Addressing inquiries regarding the incumbent MP for the Shillong constituency and INC candidate, Vincent H Pala, CM Sangma acknowledged Pala’s entrenched presence in the constituency due to his incumbency. However, Sangma cautioned against underestimating Pala, noting his 15-year tenure and the questions that arise concerning his performance. Sangma highlighted the shift in the political scenario, indicating that while previously limited options existed, the emergence of the NPP offers a promising alternative focused on development.
