Govt asks HNLC to lay down arms

SHILLONG: Home Minister James Sangma on Thursday asked the proscribed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) to lay down arms and join the main stream following the example of outfit’s general secretary Cherishstarfield Thangkhiew, who surrendered last year.
Speaking to reporters, Sangma said there were no activities of HNLC reported in the city and other parts of the state recently.
“We want to convey to HNLC that the remaining leaders and members can join the mainstream after laying down arms”, Sangma said.
According to the Home Minister, peace cannot be achieved if the outfit still carries guns and resorts to violence.
When asked whether Cherishstarfield will be appointed as negotiator to reach out to the remaining members of HNLC, the Home Minister said the government had not authorised him, but he may want to act on his personal capacity.