SHILLONG: Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister and Chairman of the West Jaintia Hills Regional Committee, Sniawbhalang Dhar said today that Meghalaya is prepared for the next round of border discussions but is waiting for Assam to appoint its regional committee chairman.
“We are waiting for Assam to officially inform us who the chairman from their side will be. As soon as they appoint the chairman of the regional committee, I think we will meet,” Dhar said.
On the status of reports for villages under Block I, Dhar said both states are in the process of finalising their submissions.
“We are ready. Reports have to be submitted from both states. I won’t say it is difficult, but since areas of difference are always areas of discussion, we will see,” he said.
He said the issue has been placed before the joint committees constituted by the two state governments.
“We have sent this subject to the committees of both state governments. That is why the committee is the authority to take a call on the border issues,” Dhar said.
Meghalaya has nearly completed the required groundwork on the demand to retransfer Block I to the state, Dhar said.
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“We have done whatever homework is required from our part. The officers have almost completed it. Once all reports are ready, we will first hold discussions within the state and then inform Assam. When they form their committee, both committees will sit and take a call,” he said.
On the Khasi-Pnar dominated villages in the disputed area, Dhar said the relevant information is available with the district administration.
“The information is with the DC regarding the area of difference,” he said.
