Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has chosen to stay silent on the recent ban imposed on Assam-registered vehicles by a pressure group from Meghalaya. On July 31, he highlighted the importance of “silent diplomacy” in resolving the conflict.
“I am in discussions with the Meghalaya Chief Minister,” remarked CM Himanta. “Public comments might exacerbate the situation, making travel more difficult for our people. Sometimes, remaining quiet is the best approach, especially since many from Assam travel to Silchar through Meghalaya.”
The controversy erupted when members of the Hynniewtrep National Youth Federation (HNYF) began halting vehicles with Assam registration plates from reaching popular tourist spots in Meghalaya, such as Sohra and Dawki. On July 26, the Meghalaya police detained members of the group at the Umtyngar junction, located approximately 20 km from Shillong.
The HNYF is advocating for a policy to limit the entry of out-of-state vehicles carrying tourists. Despite police action, the group has pledged to persist with their protests.
Himanta Sarma warned against provoking him into making public statements, saying, “Any remarks I make could endanger the lives and security of Assamese travellers in Meghalaya. As the Chief Minister, my role is not that of a social organization or a students’ union.”
Authorities are working to maintain peace and order in the affected regions. The CM assured that he is “quietly working to resolve the situation” while refraining from making public statements.
