Shillong: UDP legislator Mayralborn Syiem questioned the Survey of India this Tuesday about the status of physical border demarcation. He wants proof of pillar planting in the six sectors settled between Meghalaya and Assam back in 2022. A paper deal means nothing to locals. Residents need physical markers to feel secure.
The March 2022 pact covered Tarabari, Gizang, Hahim, Boklapara, Khanapara-Pilangkata, and Ratacherra. This represents 70 per cent of the disputed territory. Syiem noted that Phase II regional committees formed in July 2026 are looking at the remaining six areas: Langpih, Borduar, Nongwah-Mawtamur, Deshdoomreah, Block I, Block II, and Psiar-Khanduli. Villagers currently struggle with shifting electoral rolls and police jurisdiction.
Security remains a flashpoint. Six people died in a November 2022 firing at Mukroh. The government approved new outposts in Mukroh, Tihwieh, and Rani Jirang at a yearly cost of Rs 2 crore each. Syiem asked how many are actually functional today. He called for administrative neutrality to keep schools and clinics running. He stated, "a settlement on paper remains ineffective for villagers until boundary pillars are physically established."
Work also lags on the 443 km international border with Bangladesh. Roughly 45 km of fencing is missing. Thirteen spots need clearance from Border Guard Bangladesh because they sit inside the 150-yard zero line buffer. Lyngkhong villagers held a protest in June 2026. They fear the current fencing plans will push their homes outside Indian territory. Syiem demanded that the government keep all villages inside the fence and provide clear access to fields.
Compensation for land used in fencing projects is overdue. Syiem wants these arrears paid on a strict timeline. He also highlighted the closure of border haats, which began in August 2024. Perishable goods now rot with no legal market to sell them. He warned this policy pushes families toward illegal trade.
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