FROM A CORRESPONDENT
SHILLONG, June 6: Meghalaya Chief Minister Dr Mukul Sangma refuted allegations that he has always been biased with the HNLC.
The proscribed Khasi outfit on Sunday had alleged that the Chief Minister has sidelined the outfit despite it expressed willingness for peace talks and to join the mainstream.
“We are consistent with our approach. We are doing the same with the GNLA. We are not engaging in any political dialogue,” the Chief Minister told media persons here today.
“Are we talking to the GNLA? Their leadership is on the run now and their senior cadres are surrendering on a regular basis. Peace is returning and there is a need to sustain it,” Dr Sangma added.
According to Dr Sangma, the government had appointed interlocutors to mediate with various militant outfits.
The Chief Minister said, “The government is trying to talk to the militant outfits to disband. There will be no political talks (with militants’ outfits).”
The Chief Minister also said that the approach of the HNLC is a matter of concern, while referring to the recent arrest of three of its cadres along with an ULFA militant.
“The recent arrest by the police gives complete clarity on their double standard. They are equipped with arms and ammunitions which demonstrate that they are active in crimil activities,” Dr Sangma said.
The Chief Minister also said that he will convince the centre to urge Bangladesh authorities not to allow the HNLC to use the neighbouring country for anti-India activities.