In the land swap deal inked between India and Bangladesh, Meghalaya has gained 240 acres of land that were adversely held by the neighbouring country, Chief Minister Mukul Sangma has said.
Mr. Sangma, who had accompanied Prime Minister Manmohan Singh during the high-profile visit, on Thursday said that the deal was mutually important and that it was mutually acceptable.
“People will be happy...it (border dispute) was an irritant for a long time. The settlement will promote goodwill and prosperity. It will safeguard the interests of the state,” he said, adding that every decision was in consultation with the respective state governments.
In return, Meghalaya has to concede 41 acres of land to Bangladesh, Mr. Sangma said.
Stressing on the importance of border fencing, he said innocent people were perceived as intruders in the past.
“There should be concerted efforts by both sides to ensure that the fencing is completed on time,” he said.
Relationship between India and Bangladesh will start moving in the right direction following the agreements signed on the border disputes, the chief minister said.
