The Hynn-iewtrep Achik National Movement (HANM) central body has asked the organisation’s West Khasi Hills unit to withdraw its proposed 12-hour West Khasi Hills bandh on November 12 following assurance from Government to release the unit’s finance secretary Gabriel Sohlang, who was arrested recently for his alleged involvement in various arson cases.
Confirming this, West Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner S Kharlyngdoh said since Sohlang (still under judicial custody) has not been booked under MPDA, he could apply for bail, after which he would be released.
Whereas in the case of the unit’s president, Arphul Kharbani, who was booked under MPDA, Kharlyngdoh said Kharbnai has to go through a long procedure including submission of a representation to government.
“In Kharbani’s case, we are still waiting for his statement and verification report from court,” Kharlyngdoh said.
In a statement issued here on Thursday, HANM Central body president Lamphrang Kharbani said that the talks between the union and the Government held on November 5 turned out to be fruitful as Government agreed to release Sohlang.
In this connection, the HANM president has asked the West Khasi Hills unit to call off their 12-hour bandh on November 12.
Meanwhile, the union reiterated its demand for withdrawal of MPDA slapped on Kharbani.
