Guwahati, August 23: A high-level meeting between Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister Y. Patton and Assam Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary, along with other officials, was held to discuss sensitive border matters between the two states. The meeting emphasized the need to address disputes through mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.

The leaders agreed to maintain the status quo in the disputed area, pending the Supreme Court’s verdict, and welcomed joint eviction drives undertaken so far, which have benefited communities on both sides. Patton urged both states to refrain from unilateral actions until a final resolution is reached and stressed that all activities within the Disputed Area Belt (DAB) must be conducted jointly, with full sensitivity to the livelihood concerns of local farmers.

Patton highlighted the centuries-old ties between the Ahoms and Nagas, stressing that both communities have coexisted peacefully through generations. He congratulated Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma for the state’s efforts against illegal settlements and urged both states to avoid plantations or construction of pillars at eviction sites. The meeting aimed to maintain peace and stability in the region amidst the ongoing border dispute.