Residents of the Langpih area, one of the remaining sectors in the West Khasi Hills District (WKHD) where the boundary dispute remains unresolved, continue to hope that the government will fulfill its commitments and implement its assurances.
Speaking to the media, K.P. Pangniang, a former MLA of the Rambrai Jyrngam constituency and the President of the Hill State Peoples Democratic Party (HSPDP), stated that while there has been an arrangement for the two sectors in the West Khasi Hills District – the Hahim and Upper Gizang sectors – there are some shortcomings. He recalled that in 2022, the Chief Ministers of Assam and Meghalaya visited Langpih and assured the people that both states had agreed to work towards resolving the border dispute in the Langpih sector. He further stated that during 2024-25, the government is expected to continue the settlement process in the remaining disputed sectors, including Langpih in WKHD, as well as areas in Ri-Bhoi and Jaintia Hills.
According to Pangniang, the delay in recent months is being attributed to the elections in Assam. He said that the Chief Minister of Meghalaya had informed that Assam had sought additional time due to the elections and that the boundary settlement process would resume once the elections were concluded. "We in the Langpih sector have been patient and have continued to wait. We believe what they say about the elections, but the people of this area will not remain silent indefinitely. The statements made by both Meghalaya and Assam in Langpih must be fulfilled. Otherwise, this issue will return to the past, ending only in talks, promises, and hope," said Pangniang.
He added that the current calm in the region is only temporary, with residents refraining from protests and unrest in anticipation of government action. However, he cautioned that if the assurances are not honored, Langpih could once again witness turmoil, protests, and conflict. He warned that similar reactions could also emerge in the other unresolved sectors.