Arunachal Pradesh re-constitutes six regional committees to review border dispute status with Assam

Arunachal Pradesh has taken steps to address its ongoing border dispute with Assam by re-constituting six regional committees. These committees will examine the current status of the border dispute, focusing on areas where disagreements persist regarding the demarcation of villages along the inter-state border.

Committee responsibilities and members

Each committee will operate under specific Terms of Reference outlined in a notification issued by the Home and inter-state border affairs department. These terms were initially established on June 1, 2022, guiding the committees in their efforts to assess and manage the border situation.

The committees are chaired by various state ministers and officials. Health and Family Welfare Minister Biyuram Wahge leads the committee for Pakke Kessang district, while Land Management Minister Balo Raja chairs the committee for Papum Pare district. Other ministers appointed include Law Minister Kento Jini for Lower Siang district, Commerce and Industries Minister Nyato Dukam for Kamle district, Rural Development Minister Ojing Tasing for Lower Dibang Valley district, and Agriculture Minister Gabriel D Wangsu for Longding district.

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A significant development occurred on July 15, 2022, when the chief ministers of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam signed the 'Namsai Declaration.' This agreement aimed to resolve the border issue by limiting the number of disputed villages to 86 from the previous 123. Despite this agreement, challenges persist due to historical claims and differing perspectives on land ownership between the two states.

Background and historical context

The border dispute between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh dates back several decades. Originally a union territory, Arunachal Pradesh became a state in 1987, prompting discussions on the transfer of certain territories from Assam. These discussions involved a tripartite committee and eventually reached the Supreme Court, where the matter remained unresolved for an extended period.

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The re-constitution of these committees signals a renewed effort by Arunachal Pradesh to find a lasting resolution to the border dispute with Assam. By examining the current status and historical context of the issue, these committees aim to pave the way for peaceful coexistence and territorial clarity between the two states.

Looking ahead, the committees will work under their designated leaders to evaluate the situation on the ground, engage with stakeholders, and propose solutions that prioritize mutual understanding and sustainable peace along the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border.