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The Voice of the People Party has expressed displeasure over Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma being made the chief guest at the Shaad Behdeinkhalam festival in Meghalaya. The VPP expressed concern over the decision amid the Assam-Meghalaya border dispute.

Guwahati: A political controversy has arisen over inviting Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma as the chief guest at Meghalaya’s famous traditional festival Shad Behdeiñkhlam. Meghalaya’s Voice of the People Party (VPP) has expressed displeasure over this decision, saying that this invitation was not appropriate in view of the ongoing border dispute between Assam and Meghalaya.

The VPP, however, greeted the people of the state on the occasion of the festival and expressed hope that this religious and cultural event will continue to promote peace, unity and community harmony in future also.

VPP expressed objection to the invitation

VPP spokesperson Dr. A. W. In a statement issued on Wednesday, Rani said the party was disappointed that the organizers invited Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma as the chief guest at the event. He said that Shaad Behdeinkhalam is an important festival to the identity, culture and sentiments of the people of Meghalaya. Such events are a medium to strengthen the traditions and social unity of the state. But the party believes that in the present circumstances it is natural for questions to arise among the people regarding Sarma’s presence.

Concern raised regarding border dispute

In its statement, the VPP referred to the long-standing border dispute between Assam and Meghalaya. The party said issues to security and trust still exist among the people living in the border areas.

Dr. Rani said that the party would have considered it more appropriate if the organizers had not invited the Chief Minister of Assam. He alleged that there is a feeling of insecurity among some people living in the border areas regarding the leadership of the Assam government. However, several rounds of talks have also taken place between the governments of Assam and Meghalaya in the last few years to resolve the border dispute.

Cultural significance of Shaad Behdeinkhalam

Shaad Behdeinkhalam is a major traditional festival of the Jaintia community of Meghalaya. This festival is associated with religious faith and cultural heritage. According to local beliefs, the purpose of this festival is to ward off evil forces and negative energy and to wish for prosperity and a good harvest.
This annual festival reflects the identity, tradition and collective spirit of the Jaintia community. A large number of people participate in traditional customs and religious programs during the festival.

Message of peace and harmony in the festival

The VPP said that Shaad Behdeinkhalam is not just a religious event but it is a symbol of cultural unity and social bonds of the people of Meghalaya. The party expressed hope that this festival will always give the message of peace, brotherhood and community harmony. In its statement, VPP also appealed to keep the spirit of the festival above politics.

Keep an eye on Assam-Meghalaya relations

The border dispute between Assam and Meghalaya has been a decades-old issue. There have been differences between the two states regarding some areas, for the resolution of which talks have been held from time to time.

In recent years, both governments have tried to find solutions in the disputed areas, but some issues are still not fully resolved. It is in this background that political reaction has emerged regarding Himanta Biswa Sarma being invited to a major cultural program of Meghalaya.

Role of organizers and government is important

Experts believe that cultural events can often become a medium to strengthen ties between different communities and states. Participation of political leaders in such events sometimes gives positive messages, but sensitive issues can also create controversies. Now it will be important to see how the organizers and political parties react after this controversy.