The elected representatives of Sarupathar Legislative Assembly Constituency in Assam and Bhandari Legislative Assembly Constituency in Nagaland have adopted a joint statement committing to peace, cooperation and shared prosperity along the Assam-Nagaland border.

Sarupathar MLA Biswajit Phukan and Bhandari MLA Achumbemo Kikon, in the statement, emphasised the long-standing social, cultural and economic ties between communities living along the inter-state border and stressed the need to resolve local issues through dialogue, consultation and established legal and administrative mechanisms.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace, communal harmony, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. They agreed to discourage confrontation, misinformation and activities that could disturb peace, while encouraging dialogue among communities, civil society organisations, village institutions and the respective administrations.

The two legislators also agreed in principle to facilitate the constitution of a Sarupathar-Bhandari Joint Peace and Coordination Committee, comprising appropriate representatives and stakeholders from both sides in consultation with the respective district administrations. The working guidelines for the proposed committee would be worked out at the time of its formation.

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The statement further called for encouraging lawful, regulated and environmentally responsible economic activities in border areas, wherever legally permissible. It also proposed regular Assam-Nagaland cultural exchange programmes involving music, traditional arts, literature, sports, youth activities, festivals and other initiatives, with particular emphasis on youth participation.

The representatives also paid tribute to late singer and cultural icon Zubeen Garg, acknowledging his contribution to music, culture and the spirit of unity across communities and regions. They expressed an intention to support appropriate cultural and commemorative programmes in his memory and promote his message of music, humanity, friendship and cultural harmony.

The statement said the two representatives would maintain regular communication and consultation and work within their respective constitutional and legal responsibilities towards making the Assam-Nagaland border region one of peace, stability, friendship, sustainable development and shared prosperity.

It clarified that the joint statement would not prejudice or affect the official position, jurisdiction, territorial claims or legal rights of either the Assam or Nagaland government concerning the inter-state boundary or any matter pending before a competent authority or court.