Itanagar, Feb 22: In a significant development in the long-pending boundary resolution process, the first official border pillar between Arunachal Pradesh and Assam has been successfully installed at Seijosa in Pakke Kessang district on Sunday, marking a historic milestone toward lasting peace and clarity along the inter-state boundary.
Chief Minister Pema Khandu termed the development a significant achievement that reflects the spirit of the Namsai Declaration (signed on July 15, 2022, by the Chief Ministers of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh to resolve the decades-old interstate border dispute) and signals a transition from decades of uncertainty towards peaceful coexistence, administrative clarity, and long-term stability for communities residing along the border areas.
Khandu stated that the installation of the pillar was the result of sustained dialogue, mutual trust, and proactive leadership at various levels. The initiative was closely coordinated by a joint team of senior officials from both states to ensure mutual agreement and technical accuracy on the ground.
He also acknowledged the pivotal role played by Health Minister and Chairman of the Regional Committee for Pakke Kessang, Biyuram Wahge, along with district administrations and local representatives, in facilitating progress on the ground.
Echoing similar sentiments, Minister Biyuram Wahge described the day as a landmark in the history of Assam-Arunachal relations. He said the successful construction of the first official border pillar represents a concrete and confidence-building step towards resolving the long-standing boundary dispute between the two sister states in line with the Namsai Declaration.
Wahge informed that the construction process was meticulously monitored by a joint contingent of senior officials from both states to ensure transparency and consensus. The event witnessed the presence of the Deputy Commissioners of Pakke Kessang and Biswanath, Pakke Kessang ZPC Pani Tayam, the Superintendent of Police, Biswanath, Divisional Forest Officers from both states, the Nodal Officer (Survey), Assam, administrative officers, community leaders, and Gaon Burahs.
The Minister expressed heartfelt gratitude to Chief Minister Pema Khandu and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for their visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to securing a peaceful and mutually acceptable resolution to the sensitive boundary issue. He also conveyed sincere appreciation to Home Minister Mama Natung, former Chairman of the Regional Committee, and Pijush Hazarika, Chairman of the Regional Committee, Assam (Biswanath), for their dedicated efforts in advancing the demarcation process.
Officials stated that the Seijosa pillar will serve as a blueprint for the remaining demarcation work in other agreed areas, strengthening cooperation between the two states and paving the way for lasting harmony, accelerated development, and enhanced confidence among people living in the border regions.