STAFF REPORTER
GUWAHATI: The Assam and Mizoram governments today decided to achieve amicable solutions to the border problems between them, besides welcoming the deployment of neutral forces in disputed stretches on the inter-state boundary.
The representatives of the two governments met at Aizawl on Thursday. While Border Protection and Development Minister Atul Bora and UDD (Urban Development Minister) Ashok Singhal led the Assam side, Mizoram Home Minister Lalchamliana led the other side. At the meeting, the Mizoram side condoled the deaths of Assam Police personnel along the inter-state border on July 26, besides wishing early recovery of those who sustained injuries.
Both the state governments agreed to find amicable solutions to the disputed border issues through discussions. The meeting reached some agreements. According to the agreements –
(i) Both the state governments agree to maintain peace on the inter-state border areas and welcome the deployment of neutral forces by the Centre along the disputed stretches.
(ii) Both the states shall not send their respective forest and police forces for patrolling, domination, enforcement and fresh deployment to any area where confrontations and conflicts took place between the two police forces in the recent past. These would include all such areas along the Assam-Mizoram border in Karimganj, Hailakandi and Cachar distrcits of Assam and Mamit and Kolasib districts of Mizoram.
Talking to The Sentinel after the meeting, Minister Atul Bora said, "It's a good beginning. We came to Mizoram at the instruction of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. They received us warmly. During the meeting, we also had talked to Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga over the telephone. We have updated our Chief Minister with what the Mizoram Chief Minister had said during his telephonic conversation with us. In the coming days, the two chief ministers will go forwards to find amicable solutions to the border disputes.
"At today's meeting, both the sides agreed to take necessary means to promote, preserve and maintain peace and harmony amongst the people living in Assam and Mizoram, especially in the border areas. The bordering districts of the two states will hold meetings monthly to sort out issues."
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