Nagaland and Assam Take Joint Steps to Secure Border Areas
Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton announced important plans to manage the border areas between Nagaland and Assam. He said that all eviction drives along the Nagaland-Assam border will now be carried out together by officials from both states. This joint effort aims to prevent any illegal immigration and ensure no one acts alone in sensitive border regions.
Speaking during the second day of the Nagaland Assembly session, Patton emphasized that the Nagaland government, led by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, is closely monitoring the border situation. He shared that after talks between the Nagaland and Assam Chief Ministers on August 21, both sides agreed to pause any new plantation activities or erection of border pillars until they resolve issues at the highest level.
The Nagaland Cabinet previously decided on August 26 that all illegal immigrants should be evacuated. They also agreed to conduct any necessary plantation drives together with Assam, involving district officials, police, forest departments, and local communities. This ensures a coordinated and transparent process.
Patton, who is in charge of Home and Border Affairs, explained that Nagaland plans to discuss with the Union Home Ministry about the presence of Assam Police in the disputed border belt—an area where Nagaland says Assam still has police outposts, violating a 1972 agreement. Currently, Assam operates 45 police outposts in this disputed region, while Nagaland has withdrawn its five oldest police stations.
He also shared details about recent steps taken by the Nagaland government. After learning about Assam’s plans to carry out survey work in the Reserve Forest, Nagaland officials checked the area on July 17. A joint meeting between officials from both states took place on July 22 to coordinate efforts and discuss issues.
Furthermore, Patton visited the border areas of Wokha and Niuland districts with local leaders and representatives from various community organizations. This visit aimed to engage directly with people affected by border tensions.
To better respond to border issues, Nagaland has established a Special Border Response Force (SBRF), made up of personnel from the Border Affairs, Police, and Forest Departments. Patton assured that the state government is committed to protecting its citizens and will take all necessary steps to safeguard border areas through joint actions, avoiding unilateral moves.
He also asked civil society groups and media outlets to rely only on official, verified information about recent developments in the border belt, urging everyone to stay informed through trustworthy sources.
This coordinated approach highlights Nagaland’s efforts to secure its borders collaboratively with Assam, ensuring peace and stability in the region.
