HNLC calls 12-hr bandh on Dec 23

SHILLONG: In an unprecedented move, the outlawed HNLC has called a 12-hour bandh on Dec 23 demanding immediate and unconditional release of ‘all political prisoners and detainees without any delay’.
In a statement mailed to a section of the media on Thursday, HNLC publicity secretary Sainkupar Nongtraw, while announcing the bandh on Monday from 6 am to 6 pm, said the Government should immediately release all those who were arrested in connection with the ILP issue on ‘false charges’ and are languishing in jails.
“Many youths are being blamed for causing damages to government properties. Their families are being put under undue mental harassment as they have to run from pillar to post to secure bail. Many of the youths belong to poor families and their parents and relatives are fighting hard to make monetary arrangements for engaging lawyers and securing bail,” he said.
Justifying the demand of the pressure groups to introduce the Inner Line Permit (ILP), the HNLC spokesperson said that they resorted to ‘democratic’ means to solve the issue of influx.
“The Government has turned a blind eye by putting aside its democratic character. People of Hynniewtrep are about to celebrate Christmas. But what about the youths who are lodged in jail? Don’t they also deserve to be with their families during Christmas?” he questioned.
The militant leader also lamented that corrupt ministers and government officials were swindling crores of rupees, yet no action was being taken against them.