Shillong, Dec 15: The resumption of the second phase of the inter-state border resolution process remains stalled, with Mowkaiaw MLA Nujorki Sungoh reiterating the demand for the return of 36 villages in the Block 1 area to Meghalaya.
Speaking on the issue, Sungoh stated, “The Block 1 issue is yet to be discussed in a formal meeting, so not much can be said at this point. However, I have consistently raised the matter in the Assembly.” He emphasized that the 36 villages in Block 1 are predominantly inhabited by Pnar people, underscoring Meghalaya’s claim over the area.
While the situation in the region remains largely peaceful, Sungoh noted that it is “not incident-free,” pointing to the need for a permanent solution. “The area, with as many as 36 villages, is claimed by Assam as theirs. But I firmly believe that all these villages should be returned to Meghalaya,” he asserted.
On the progress of the police border outpost, which was sanctioned following the firing incident involving Assam forest guards that led to the deaths of several villagers, Sungoh revealed that the identification of land for the construction is still underway.