Meghalaya has taken up with Assam the threat of an economic blockade issued by a student organisation in the neighbouring state.
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, who is also the Home Minister, said both governments are working to resolve the issue.
Stating that there appears to be some misunderstanding between the NGOs and the government, he said he will ensure that no such blockade is imposed against Meghalaya.
Tensions on the interstate border escalated as the Phulbari regional unit of Garo Students’ Union warned of a “proportionate” counter-blockade against Assam, responding to All Assam Minority Students Union’s (AAMSU) call for economic sanctions over the controversial labour entry ban in Garo Hills.
The stand-off followed a recent meeting organised by AAMSU at Mankachar in South Salmara district, where it protested the denial of entry to migrant workers and traders into Meghalaya.
The Achik State Peoples’ Front (ASPF) has taken exception to AAMSU’s reported interference with vegetable vendors and its alleged attempt to impose de facto economic restrictions within the Garo Hills region.