The Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM) has expressed concern over large-scale cultivation activities in the disputed Lapangap area. According to KHNAM working president Thomas Passah, the use of heavy machinery in the area has created apprehension among local residents, who fear that it may lead to possible future claims on the land. Passah stated that while cultivation and harvesting activities are currently proceeding peacefully, there is growing discontent among residents over the manner in which farming activities are being carried out. Concerns over the use of heavy machinery have been raised, as it was initially understood that only limited hill areas would be cultivated by members of the Karbi community. The understanding was reached during the visit of Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, as reported by the Hynniewtrep Border Dispute Redressal Forum (HBDRF). Residents fear that large-scale cultivation, particularly if supported through government or council schemes, could eventually be used to strengthen claims over the disputed land. Meanwhile, KHNAM and the HBDRF have urged the state government to ensure thorough ground verification of every village falling under Blocks I and II before the Regional Committee prepares its report on the remaining areas of difference along the Meghalaya-Assam boundary.
A representation was submitted to Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma following the reconstitution of the Regional Committee for the disputed areas. The committee has been urged to visit every affected village, interact directly with residents, and carry out proper ground verification instead of preparing its findings without extensive field visits.
