Meghalaya govt open to discussing amnesty for HNLC, but with limits

Guwahati: The Meghalaya government signalled a change in its approach towards the demands of the banned separatist group, the Hynniewtreap National Liberation Council (HNLC).

After months of a stalled peace process, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma indicated a willingness to discuss amnesty for the outfit's members.

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Speaking to the media, Sangma acknowledged ongoing communication with both the central government and the HNLC to determine the scope of potential amnesty.

He clarified that amnesty would likely be limited to minor offences, with "heinous crimes" requiring a case-by-case assessment.

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The Chief Minister downplayed the recent arrests of suspected HNLC sleeper cell members, suggesting they were individuals motivated by financial gain rather than ideological commitment to the group.

He said the government's efforts to counter extortion activities by the HNLC and others.