In a bid to discuss modalities in resolving disputes arising out of several bordering villages near Jaleswar and Bhograi in Baleswar district, a meeting of top officials of Odisha and West Bengal Governments was held at West Medinipur in West Bengal on Thursday.
It’s an identity crisis of sorts for thousands of residents of as many as 82 villages, who are affected by the continuing territorial dispute.
Notably, the Subarnarekha river is the natural border between both States. However, there is no physical demarcation; and the virtual lining often creates confusion.
West Bengal extracts sand from the riverbed. However, it is said that the sand mining zones fall within Odisha’s jurisdiction which is the root cause of tension between locals of both the sides. According to reports, in order to maintain peace and tranquility in the adjoining areas and resolve the issue, higher authorities from the two States deliberated to find ways and means. The results of the talks were awaited.
