Dy CM reiterates Govt appeal to HNLC for peace talks
Shillong, Dec 21: Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar has strongly denounced illegal activities like extortion and violent acts by any militant group in the state.
Condemning the recent IED blast orchestrated by Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) at Dhar Construction Company at Shymplong in East Jaintia Hills over alleged extortion demand, the minister declared that the government would not bow down to any threat from the banned group.
“We from the government will not tolerate such threats. We are dead against it, especially knowing that the HNLC is a banned organisation. Fortunately, the police have taken swift action and arrested a few individuals, and we believe the police will act according to the law,” Dhar told reporters.
He further criticized the HNLC’s contradictory claims regarding extortion demands, stating: “You have seen they are contradicting themselves. A couple of months back they claimed that Sniawbhalang Dhar had paid the extortion, and now they are saying he is not paying us. Therefore, all these allegations are baseless and unfounded.”
The Deputy Chief Minister emphasized the government’s resolve to combat terrorism and anti‑social elements, urging citizens to remain fearless.
“I want to send a clear message to the people of the state, including the youth, that we will not bow down to any militant outfit. We are against anti‑social elements,” he said.
Allaying people’s apprehension, he said, “We also urge the people of the state not to be afraid, as the government is with them.”
Meanwhile, he reiterated the government’s openness to dialogue, and extended an invitation to the HNLC for peace talks.
“The door is open for peace talks with the HNLC. They had, in fact, come for peace talks at the level of the Home Minister, and till today the door remains open. We want lasting peace in the state and will ensure tranquility prevails in Meghalaya,” he said.
Dhar also made a call for unity and development, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to the welfare of the people.
“We would like to strengthen the state as we are for development and not for anything else. We are totally against any attempt to spread negativity in the state,” he said.
