No blanket amnesty for HNLC, says Meghalaya CM

SHILLONG: The Meghalaya government has ruled out giving blanket amnesty to the banned Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC).

Informing this, Meghalaya chief minister Conrad Sangma stated that while minor issues can be resolved, it is not feasible to offer blanket amnesty to the HNLC.

Briefing the media, Sangma stated that the Meghalaya government is in ongoing discussions with the central government regarding the HNLC's demands.

“We are in communication with the Government of India, making it clear how far we can go. This has been conveyed multiple times to the HNLC through both the central and state governments. We are adhering to the established protocols and procedures used in such talks,” Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma said.

Sangma noted that any amnesty would have to follow specific guidelines, particularly concerning heinous crimes committed in the past.

“We cannot offer blanket amnesty; each case must be examined individually,” he added.

The Meghalay chief minister reiterated that both the central and state governments are open to discussions.

However, any blanket amnesty would deviate from the standard procedures followed in such negotiations, he said

Earlier this year, the HNLC withdrew from peace talks, accusing the government of failing to address their core demands, including providing general amnesty to their leaders and cadres.

Rise in HNLC Activities

Commenting on the increase in HNLC's illegal activities, Sangma referred to the group's use of demand notes sent via WhatsApp.

“Sending WhatsApp messages is an easy activity these days, but we are working with the police to address this issue. We are improving our intelligence capabilities and have made some arrests,” he said.

Sangma mentioned that the issue was discussed in a recent meeting at the police headquarters, where he instructed the Megjalaya director general of police (DGP) and others to enhance efforts to prevent extortion notes from being sent to citizens.

On HNLC Sleeper Cells

Regarding the recent busting of an HNLC sleeper cell, Sangma clarified that the term “sleeper cell” might be an overstatement.

“It’s just a term for individuals who were inactive but were then reactivated. These individuals are sometimes paid to carry out certain activities,” he said.

The government is improving its cyber cell and closely monitoring such activities.

“We take every issue and threat seriously and will continue to take measures to ensure these do not escalate into significant problems. We are vigilant and not taking any threats lightly,” the Meghalaya CM assured.