Farmers’ union petitions MHRC, alleges collapse of Lapangap border peace talks

By Our Reporter

SHILLONG, May 23: Exposing the collapse of recent border peace talks, the Hill Farmers’ Union (HFU) has petitioned the Meghalaya Human Rights Commission (MHRC) over the state’s failure to protect Lapangap farmers from continued harassment, stone-pelting, and “shifting” demands by Karbi groups backed by Assam Police.

The move signals a breakdown in trust toward the West Jaintia Hills district administration and police. The HFU alleges that despite multiple “peace meetings,” farmers remain barred from their fields, threatening the economic survival of the border community.

HFU general secretary A Kharsyntiew stated that a May 5 agreement—which was supposed to allow farmers back to their lands by May 8—was ignored. Instead, when villagers attempted to resume cultivation, they were met with stone-pelting from Karbi groups while Assam Police personnel actively stopped them from working.

“The situation has moved beyond the scope of district-level authorities,” Kharsyntiew said, noting that local officials appear unable to enforce order or provide safety.

The union also highlighted a pattern of shifting demands from the Karbi side. (Contd on P-7)