Shillong, Aug 14: The proscribed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC), which has completed 39 years, has lamented the loss of its cadres over the years to both enemy action and “betrayal from within.”
HNLC general secretary Sainkupar Nongtraw, in a statement issued ahead of the Independence Day on Friday, paid tributes to its deceased cadres and expressed gratitude to its supporters.
“Thirty-nine years is not merely a number. It represents thirty-nine years of struggle, sacrifice, perseverance, and an unbroken commitment to the cause of our people,” the statement added.
Referring to the loss suffered by the outfit due to “betrayal from within”, he said, “This is the wound that refuses to heal… and continues to weaken us as a people.”
The outfit also criticised the proposed FCRA Amendment Bill, saying it gives the government unchecked power over civil society funding.
Citing data tabled in Parliament on July 28, 2026, the HNLC noted India received “a record US$94.84 billion in gross FDI in 2025–26,” even as grassroots organisations face stricter FCRA norms.


