Karbi Anglong: A violent clash along the Assam-Meghalaya border on Thursday resulted in the death of Orivel Timumg, a (44 years) old resident of Tapat village in West Karbi Anglong’s Donkamokam Revenue Circle. The incident occurred just three days after the Inter-State Border Peace Committee (ISBPC) resolved to suspend agricultural activities in disputed areas to maintain peace.
According to police sources, the clash erupted when a group from Lapangap village in Meghalaya’s West Jaintia Hills allegedly began harvesting paddy on disputed land, prompting resistance from Tapat villagers. The confrontation turned deadly, claiming Timumg’s life and leaving several others injured.
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Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) chief Dr. Tuliram Ronghang strongly condemned the incident, describing it as a “heinous act.” He announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹10 lakh for the next of kin of the deceased and assured that the KAAC would fully cover medical expenses for those injured. Several social and political groups in Karbi Anglong district also condemned the violence, demanding justice and stronger measures to prevent such incidents in border areas.
The disputed area is one of six regions slated for discussion in the second phase of border talks between Assam and Meghalaya. Hours after the incident, Assam’s Minister for Border Protection and Development, Atul Bora, chaired a departmental review meeting to discuss the Annual Action Plan for FY 2025–26. Emphasizing the need for permanent peace, Bora stated, “Coordination and peace in interstate border areas will pave the way for rapid development, benefiting both states.” He directed officers, including Joint Secretary Madhumita Nath and Sanchalika Subhalakshmi Deka, to ensure swift implementation of measures to address border issues.
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The incident has heightened tensions in the region, raising concerns about the effectiveness of recent peace initiatives as both states work toward resolving longstanding border disputes. The West Karbi Anglong District Commissioner issued a prohibitory order under section 163 of Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023 to ensure public safety and maintain peace and harmony across the district.
