SHILLONG: The GNLA on Monday said that the outfit is coming for talks not due to the fear of operations against its cadres by the security forces.
“We did not beg for peace talks. We were invited by Governor Dr. KK Paul. After several meetings held among the leaders, well wishers, area commanders and cadres, GNLA resolved to accept the invitation of the Governor,” political affairs secretary of GNLA, Bikdot Nikjang Marak, said in a statement.
The Meghalaya Governor, during his Republic Day address, had urged the GNLA to come forward for talks.
According to Marak, since the Governor is the constitutional figure and occupies highest position and status in the State, “we are willing to stand by his side and moreover, he is non- partisan and above party politics”, the political affairs secretary of GNLA said.
The GNLA leader also criticized Shambu Singh, the Union Joint Secretary in charge North East, Ministry of Home Affairs, for his remarks against the peace talks.
“We are not scared of any kind of operation. We are determined and ready to face any kind of eventuality,” Marak said.
The GNLA leader also said that those who wanted to oppose the peace talks can either join hands with armed forces or the police department.
Criticizing the recent statement of the Convener of Achik Peace Volunteers Council, Che Guevara Marak that more forces should be sent to Garo Hills to neutralize GNLA and other militant groups, the GNLA leader wanted to know who the ‘bogus Guevara’ was.
“He is none other than a police officer serving for his vested interests. He is the most unpopular figure in the history of Meghalaya,” the GNLA leader said.
The GNLA reiterated that nobody can eliminate the militant outfit. “Do they think that they can eliminate GNLA? The militant outfit will survive for another three decades even without Champion and Sohan. Champion R Sangma will come out of jail. It is his fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution of India. Whether Government is willing to release him or not, that does not matter. It is a legal battle and bail is a matter of right and not favour,” the GNLA leader added.