ROING, NOV 2:
A Regional Committee meeting on the long-pending inter-state boundary issue between Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, with particular reference to Lower Dibang Valley district and Tinsukia district, was held at Roing to deliberate on outstanding concerns and explore ways for an amicable and lasting resolution.
The meeting saw detailed deliberations on the boundary issue in the Rukmo sector, with representatives of both States emphasising mutual understanding, cooperation and accommodation to maintain peace and tranquillity along the inter-state boundary.
Minister and Chairman of the Regional Committee Ojing Tasing urged the Assam representatives to consider the natural geographical boundary formed by the Kundil River in the Kundil-Kolia Reserve Forest area. He also highlighted the presence of human settlements on the Arunachal Pradesh side and pointed out that the area is accessible only through Arunachal Pradesh. He called for due consideration of the historical, geographical and administrative aspects of the Rukmo issue before arriving at a mutually acceptable settlement.
Tasing appreciated the decision to constitute committees and conduct a joint ground-level survey to assess and demarcate the disputed boundary.
Assam Minister and Chairman of the Tinsukia Regional Committee Atul Bora stressed the need to revisit the disputed area to find a permanent solution to the long-pending issue in the Rukmo sector. He said mutual understanding, accommodation and a spirit of concession would be essential for resolving the matter, adding that both sides should work towards a practical and mutually acceptable outcome.
Tinsukia Guardian Minister and Minister for Transformation and Development and Labour Welfare Rameshwar Teli said every problem could be resolved through collective will and sincere commitment. He emphasised the need to constitute committees from both States and conduct an on-the-spot joint survey to assess the actual ground situation.
Advisor (Home and Education) and Regional Committee member Mutchu Mithi highlighted the sentiments of the people of the Rukmo area and called for continued dialogue and coordination between the two States to facilitate a permanent and mutually acceptable settlement. MLA and committee member Puinnyo Apum also shared his views on the boundary issue and called for a peaceful resolution.
Lower Dibang Valley Deputy Commissioner Fwwrman Brahma presented the status of the boundary issue from the Arunachal Pradesh side, placing relevant facts, developments and observations before the committee.
Tinsukia Deputy Commissioner Sumit Sattawan reiterated his commitment to adhering to the terms of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
Following detailed deliberations, the meeting agreed on three key measures: conducting a joint ground-level survey of the disputed area in the Rukmo sector to ascertain the geographical position and prevailing ground realities; examining historical records, notifications and other documentary evidence relating to boundary demarcation and administrative jurisdiction; and giving due consideration to natural geographical features, existing settlements, accessibility and administrative arrangements in the area.
The meeting concluded with a shared understanding that the boundary issue should be addressed through dialogue, cooperation and mutual accommodation. The proposed joint survey is expected to provide a basis for further deliberations and help take the resolution process forward.
Both sides reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace, tranquillity and harmonious relations between the people of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, stressing that a peaceful settlement of the boundary issue is important for the interests and development of people living in the border areas.
