Shillong : Two top rebel leaders of the proscribed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) has expressed their inability to participate in the discussions with the government until all pending cases against them are dropped and a ceasefire agreement signed.
In a joint statement, HNLC chairman Bobby Marwein and general secretary-cum-publicity secretary Sainkupar Nongtraw said, “Currently, the initial round of official talks has commenced under the guidance of our former vice chairman. However, the government insists on the participation of the Chairman and General secretary.”
The two top leaders, who are believed to be hiding in Bangladesh to evade police arrest, said, that unless all pending cases against us are withdrawn or a framework agreement for a ceasefire is signed, the HNLC chairman or general secretary cannot participate in the discussions.
“Officially, we have entrusted our newly appointed vice chairman, Teimiki Laloo, with overseeing the process and evaluating its progress,” they said.
The HNLC’s demands came days after deputy chief minister in-charge home, Prestone Tynsong reiterated that the state government was waiting for the decision of the HNLC on the request that the outfit’s chairman and general secretary be present in the second round of peace talks to be held very soon.
Marwein and Nongtraw said that the HNLC has actively sought political dialogue with the Government of India in an effort to establish lasting peace.
“We firmly believe that a political solution is essential for sustainable peace. Therefore, it is crucial that peace talks are not contingent upon predetermined terms. If conditions are to be imposed, they should be agreed upon by both parties rather than dictated by one side alone,” they asserted.
Noting that peace talks are intended to facilitate a solution through negotiations and diplomatic efforts, Marwein and Nongtraw contended, “However, the Government of India seems to perceive these talks as a form of surrender or disarmament”.
“We desire a lasting peace that encompasses freedom and justice while acknowledging and respecting the concerns and aspirations of the Hynniewtrep people as a unified entity. We firmly oppose any notion of temporary peace that could jeopardize our national existence and right to self-determination,” the HNLC leaders said.
HNLC leaders to participate in peace talks after pending cases against them are dropped and ceasefire agreement signed
