Govt leaves the door open for HNLC talks

SHILLONG, Jan 7: The Meghalaya government remains open to resuming peace talks with the proscribed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) under one condition — non-negotiable issues cannot be compromised.
Chief Secretary Donald P Wahlang on Tuesday said that the HNLC had initially shown strong interest in continuing the discussions but certain contentious issues have prevented both sides from reaching a point of agreement. “The government had requested the HNLC members to return to their base, hold proper discussions among themselves, and come back to us when there is complete clarity and when they are ready to reach a convergence,” he explained.
He added that the HNLC members had subsequently held internal meetings but have not yet returned to resume the peace talks. “We are waiting. Our doors are open — that is the most important thing,” the Chief Secretary said.
Responding to a query, Wahlang clarified that while some issues are negotiable, others are non-negotiable.
“For non-negotiable issues, we have to consider the involvement of the Ministry of Home Affairs in this process. These issues cannot be compromised,” he stressed.
It is worth noting that the central government has declared the HNLC an “unlawful association” under the provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). This designation applies to all factions, wings, and front organisations of the HNLC and will remain in effect for five years, starting from November 16, 2024.