Meghalaya: HNLC reconsiders talks after amnesty signal

Guwahati: There's renewed hope for peace talks in Meghalaya as the proscribed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) appears to be reevaluating its stance following the state government's recent announcement to revisit the issue of amnesty for the rebel group.

HNLC interlocutor, Sadon Blah, confirmed ongoing discussions with the outfit. "The government's signal to reconsider amnesty has prompted them to think about it again," Blah told The Shillong Times.

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He said that the HNLC hasn't completely ruled out negotiations, highlighting their core demands: amnesty, lifting the ban on the group, and withdrawal of cases against members. "If the government is willing to address these demands, the HNLC remains open to talks," Blah added.

This development comes after Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma indicated the government's openness to discussing the extent of amnesty that could be offered.

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While acknowledging the possibility of amnesty for lesser offences, Sangma stressed that heinous crimes would be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

The HNLC's previous withdrawal from tripartite peace talks stemmed from their core demands being unmet. Amnesty was a central point of contention during those initial discussions.