Guwahati, August 12: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has urged the Arunachal Pradesh government to order an inquiry into the recent border clash along the Assam-Arunchal Border in Dhemaji district. He urged the government, identify those responsible and take strict action, while appealing for restraint to prevent the incident from affecting the longstanding ties between the two states.
The latest flare-up occurred on August 10 along the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border in Dhemaji district, amid a dispute over alleged land encroachment. At least 18 villagers from Assam were injured, four of them critically, after unidentified persons from the Arunachal side allegedly opened fire
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Sarma said the communities involved in the confrontation – the Mising of Assam and the Adi of Arunachal Pradesh – share deep historical and cultural links.
“These are two brothers. There cannot be a permanent conflict between these two communities,” Sarma said.
He said the incident should be investigated and those found responsible should face punishment.
“If there has been a crime, there has to be an inquiry, the culprits have to be identified and strict action has to be taken,” he said.
The Chief Minister expressed confidence that the situation would de-escalate and said Assam minister Ranoj Pegu and Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu had spoken on the issue and were working towards a solution.
Sarma also referred to the economic blockade that followed the clash, expressing hope that the situation would return to normal.
“There is no question of a permanent conflict between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh,” he said, describing the latest tensions as a temporary setback in relations between the neighbouring states.
The two states share an 804-km inter-state boundary, with disputes over several areas continuing despite efforts at resolution
