Tensions flared along the Assam‑Meghalaya border on Monday after Assam Police conducted an unannounced foot patrol in Mukroh, a village claimed by both states. The patrol entered the Phlong area of Mukroh at about 12.45 pm, marching along the NEC road and an internal road.
The Assam Police failed to notify Meghalaya Police before entering the highly sensitive area, sparking concern among the Pnar community that resides in the village. Residents reported fear and confusion, as the village is considered a disputed border location.
Jagpal Singh Dhanoa, district police chief of West Jaintia Hills, said he has raised the issue with his counterpart in West Karbi Anglong. The correspondent could not reach Dhanoa for further clarification.
The Dorbar Shnong of Mukroh Pyllun has demanded an explanation from Meghalaya Police and called for increased security along the border. A letter from the village headman Kitang Maskut and the Dorbar secretary questioned whether the Barato Police Outpost or West Jaintia Hills district police received any advance notice of the movement.
Mukroh is officially under Meghalaya’s jurisdiction, falling within the Barato Police Outpost in Laskein Block, but Assam claims it lies within the Jirikinding police station area of West Karbi Anglong. The village was also the site of a firing incident on 22 November 2022.
The unannounced patrol could have law‑and‑order implications, the village council warned. It urged Meghalaya Police to intensify patrolling at the Mukroh BOP to safeguard the safety of life and property of villagers.
