HNLC, a Meghalaya militiant group, withdraws from tripartite peace talks with Centre, state govt

Contrary to the state government's condition of no armed violence or threats, the outfit recently issued a death threat to Gavin Mylliemngap, an MLA of the ruling National People's Party in Meghalaya.

Guwahati: Meghalaya-based banned insurgent group Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) on Wednesday said it had decided to withdraw from the ongoing peace talks as the government showed no seriousness to meet its "core demands" for taking the dialogue forward.

In a statement, HNLC general secretary, Sainkupar Nongraw said that "political demands" of the group were not placed on the table due to lack of seriousness in addressing their "core demands."

The "core demands" included removal of the ban on HNLC, withdrawal of all pending cases against its leaders and cadres, safe passage for its leaders and cadres and appointment of an authorized representative for communication and facilitating the negotiations. He said the "core demands" were placed by HNLC leader Chesterfield Thangkhiew in January 2021. Chesterfield, however, was killed during an "operation" by the security forces in August 2021.

"The ban impedes our ability to engage in peaceful negotiations, and it is essential for progress to be made that the ban is lifted," said the statement.

The HNLC has been fighting for a "sovereign homeland" for the tribal Khasi population of Meghalaya. It was declared a banned organisation by the Centre after it allegedly carried out several bomb blasts and extortion in the past.

The outfit had in the past expressed its desire to join peace talks but had put forth some demands, which were rejected by the government. It had also demanded a separate flag and Constitution for Meghalaya, which kept the peace process stalled. But the peace talks began in August last yesterday after it agreed for unconditional talks.

The HNLC on Wednesday also shared a copy of the letter it sent to AK Mishra, the advisor of MHA for the Northeast in which it conveyed the decision to withdraw from the peace talks. "We have concerns that if these fundamental issues remain unaddressed, our political demands will also be dismissed," it further said.