Positive Breakthrough: Assam-Arunachal Border Blockade Suspension Brings Hope

The indefinite Border Blockade Suspension along the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border, which had caused significant disruption, has been temporarily lifted following crucial high-level interventions. This positive development brings relief to residents and commuters, signaling a constructive step towards resolving simmering tensions.

Understanding the Border Blockade Suspension

• Initiation of Blockade: The blockade was initially called by several Mising community organizations.
• Reason for Blockade: The primary demand was justice for the alleged killings of two youths from Assam in Arunachal Pradesh.
• Impact of Blockade: Seven key arterial roads along the border were obstructed, severely affecting movement and trade.

Path to Border Blockade Suspension

The decision to implement the Border Blockade Suspension came after productive discussions involving Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. Both state governments, along with police authorities, provided assurances of swift and fair justice in the cases.

• Intervention by Chief Ministers: Direct talks between CM Khandu and CM Sarma were instrumental.
• Assurances from Authorities: Promises of delivering justice to the victims’ families were key to the temporary Border Blockade Suspension.
• Gratitude from Organizations: The Takam Mising Porin Kebang (TMPK), Mising Mimag Kebang (MMK), and Takam Mising Mime Kebang (TMMK) expressed their appreciation for the proactive stance taken by the Chief Ministers and Assam’s Chief Secretary.

Legal Action and Safety Assurances Following Border Blockade Suspension

Arunachal Pradesh Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chukhu Apa confirmed that legal proceedings have been initiated in both tragic incidents. These actions underscore the commitment to justice that led to the Border Blockade Suspension.

• Case 1: Prabash Doley:
  • Incident: Prabash Doley, 22, from Dhemaji, Assam, was allegedly killed in Chimpu, Itanagar, on June 18.
  • Action Taken: The accused, Tai John, has been arrested and charged. Forensic results are awaited to complete the chargesheet.
• Case 2: Shankar Pegu:
  • Incident: Shankar Pegu, 29, from Biswanath, Assam, was allegedly shot by his employer, Tadar Bhai, in Roing on July 13, succumbing to injuries later.
  • Action Taken: The accused is in custody, facing charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Arms Act.

IGP Apa emphasized that these were isolated criminal acts and not targeted attacks on any specific community, aiming to allay fears following the Border Blockade Suspension. District Superintendents of Police (SPs) have been directed to ensure the safety of migrant workers in the region. Furthermore, compensation will be provided to the victims’ families, and both cases are being fast-tracked for resolution.

Future Steps After Border Blockade Suspension

A joint meeting involving all stakeholder organizations is expected within the next three days. This ongoing dialogue is crucial to solidify the Border Blockade Suspension and work towards long-term peace and cooperation between the two states.