Border Disputes with Assam Almost Resolved, Focus on Collaborative Development: Pema Khandu

ITANAGAR: In a significant statement on August 20, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu revealed that the long-standing border disputes between Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, particularly in areas inhabited by the Bodo community, are nearing resolution, except for a few remaining pockets. Speaking during an interactive session focused on understanding the socio-cultural issues of the Bodos in Arunachal, held at the DK Convention Centre in Itanagar, CM Khandu stressed that delineating a boundary is merely the beginning of the process.

CM Khandu underscored that true progress and peace can only be achieved when the communities residing on either side of the boundary collaborate with a spirit of camaraderie and fraternity. He attributed the historic progress to the earnest efforts of both the NDA government at the center and BJP governments in the two neighboring states, coupled with the collective dedication of all stakeholders involved.

The Chief Minister emphasized that the era of the Congress government was marked by a lack of sincerity and a convoluted approach, impeding any meaningful advancement in resolving these contentious issues. He credited the BJP government with a determined approach, symbolized by the resolve of "Abhi Nahi Toh Kabhi Nahi" (Now or Never), for making substantial strides in addressing these challenges.

“This wasn’t possible earlier because of the lack of sincerity of the Congress government and the convoluted approach with which they used to work. They had neither clarity of thought nor any concrete action plan. But the BJP government was determined to make the headway with the resolve of Abhi Nahi Toh Kabhi Nahi,” he said.

Moreover, CM Khandu highlighted the vital role played by cultural cooperation between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh in promoting mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence among the populace of both states. He pointed out that the Congress's historical neglect and irresponsibility towards the Northeastern region, particularly Assam, had resulted in periods of violence, insurgency, and turmoil. However, since 2014, a positive transformation has taken place, with peace being restored and development progressing at an accelerated pace.

“Things have changed drastically since 2014. Peace has come back and development is taking place rapidly,” he pointed out.

“Today our government, backed by our political will, is rooting out corruption from every sphere of governance,” the Arunachal Pradesh CM said.

Khandu reiterated the significance of combating corruption as a critical step towards ensuring development and stability in the region. He attributed the prevalence of corruption to the earlier Congress regime, terming it a "gift" from the central government of that time. He proudly stated that the current government, supported by unwavering political determination, is actively eradicating corruption from all aspects of governance.

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