Fresh protests have erupted in Uriamghat, a border area in Assam’s Golaghat district, following renewed tensions along the Assam-Nagaland border. The demonstrations reflect growing frustration among local residents, who have accused authorities of failing to ensure lasting peace and security in the region. The unrest once again brings attention to the decades-old border dispute between the two northeastern states.
According to locals, recent incidents of land encroachment and intimidation have caused fear among villagers. They have demanded stronger security deployment and an immediate solution from both state governments.
Read More: Tripura CM Manik Saha Boosts Healthcare Facilities in Agartala
Locals protest amid rising Assam-Nagaland border tensions
Hundreds of villagers gathered in Uriamghat to voice their anger and demand government intervention. The protesters carried placards and shouted slogans, calling for an end to what they termed as “repeated provocations” from across the border. They urged both the Assam and Nagaland administrations to act quickly to prevent further escalation.
The protesters claimed that people from nearby areas of Nagaland had allegedly entered Assam’s territory and threatened local farmers. They said such activities have been happening for years, but the recent incidents have created renewed panic. The villagers also accused local officials of neglecting the situation, which they believe could spiral into violence if not handled swiftly.
The tension has not only disrupted farming and trade but also affected the social harmony of the border villages. Several community leaders have called for peace meetings and the reopening of dialogue between the two state governments.
Assam-Nagaland border tensions spark fear among villagers
The Assam-Nagaland border tensions have a long and complex history, rooted in territorial claims and administrative boundaries. Uriamghat, located along the border with Nagaland’s Wokha district, has often witnessed confrontations over land ownership.
Local residents say that despite multiple agreements and peace efforts, disputes continue to flare up from time to time. They fear that without a permanent boundary settlement, the recurring unrest will continue to affect their livelihoods. Farmers in the area have expressed concern over losing cultivable land and have appealed to the Assam government for compensation and protection.
Villagers also highlighted the lack of adequate security presence in sensitive areas. They demanded that more police and paramilitary forces be deployed to prevent encroachment and safeguard people’s safety. Community leaders urged both sides to maintain restraint and engage in dialogue instead of confrontation.
Government steps in to calm the situation
In response to the protests, district authorities in Golaghat held an emergency meeting to review the situation. Officials assured the protesters that they were in constant touch with their counterparts in Nagaland to avoid any further clashes. The Assam police also increased patrolling in the border areas to maintain peace and prevent any untoward incident.
Deputy Commissioner and senior officers visited the protest site and interacted with villagers to understand their grievances. They promised that all efforts would be made to ensure the safety of residents and to resolve land-related disputes through proper channels.
Meanwhile, the Nagaland administration has also been urged to restrain its citizens from crossing into Assam’s territory. Both states have agreed to maintain peace until a long-term settlement is reached under the supervision of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
Assam-Nagaland border tensions: a decades-old dispute
The Assam-Nagaland border tensions date back to the creation of Nagaland in 1963, when differences arose over the boundary demarcation. Assam has repeatedly accused Nagaland of encroaching on its land in several districts, including Sivasagar, Jorhat, and Golaghat. Periodic clashes and confrontations have resulted in loss of lives and property, leaving thousands displaced over the years.
Although both states have held several rounds of talks under the Centre’s mediation, the dispute remains unresolved. The Supreme Court is also hearing a case related to the boundary issue. However, villagers on the ground continue to face the brunt of the conflict.
Residents of Uriamghat said they have been living in constant fear and uncertainty. Many have built temporary shelters away from the disputed zones to avoid confrontation. Local leaders say that the ongoing uncertainty has discouraged investment and development in the area.
Calls for peace and permanent resolution
Community leaders and civil society organisations have urged both governments to prioritise peace over politics. They stressed the need for continuous dialogue and a transparent process to identify and demarcate the true border. Villagers also requested compensation for those affected by past incidents and improved infrastructure in border areas.
Activists from both Assam and Nagaland have proposed the formation of joint committees involving citizens from both sides to build trust and prevent misinformation. Such initiatives, they believe, can help restore confidence among border residents.
During the protest, speakers emphasised that ordinary people on both sides suffer the most whenever tensions rise. They called for a permanent peace agreement that would ensure security, economic progress, and stability for all border communities.
Way forward for Assam and Nagaland
The latest unrest in Uriamghat has once again shown that the Assam-Nagaland border tensions cannot be ignored any longer. Analysts believe that both states must work closely with the Union government to reach a final settlement that benefits residents on both sides.
Experts suggest that joint development projects, including better road connectivity, education, and healthcare, could help build trust and reduce hostility. Strengthening the presence of local administration and police will also be key to preventing further conflicts.
As peace talks continue, the people of Uriamghat remain hopeful that their long struggle for stability will soon bear fruit. Their demand is simple — safety, dignity, and the right to live without fear.
The protests in Uriamghat reflect the deep frustration of border residents who have lived through years of uncertainty. While the governments of Assam and Nagaland have expressed their commitment to maintaining peace, the people now expect concrete action. Only through cooperation and sustained dialogue can the recurring Assam-Nagaland border tensions finally come to an end.
Read More: Union MoS Reviews Central Schemes, Fund Utilisation for IDPs in Manipur
