SHILLONG: Meghalaya chief minister Conrad Sangma has affirmed that the state government is actively working to eradicate alleged extortion activities carried out by the banned Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) in the state.
“We are taking decisive steps to ensure that extortion comes to a halt, and none of our citizens are adversely affected by it,” Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma said while speaking to media persons.
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His remarks followed a recent surge in the issuance of demand notes to business owners and the subsequent arrest of HNLC’s PSO Storgy Lyngdoh in Shillong by Meghalaya police.
Sangma reiterated the Meghalaya government’s firm stance against illegal activities such as extortion.
“We have made it abundantly clear that we will not tolerate such unlawful practices,” the Meghalaya CM emphasized.
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Detailing the government’s proactive measures, Sangma mentioned a recent closed-door meeting where instructions were issued to the police to take necessary action to prevent extortion activities.
“The police have been directed to address this issue effectively, and we are already witnessing a decrease in extortion cases. Although there is still much work to be done, our efforts are ongoing,” the Meghalaya CM stated.
Responding to concerns about the seriousness of HNLC regarding peace talks, Sangma emphasized that the group must cease such activities if they are genuinely committed to dialogue.
Regarding the resurgence of the disbanded Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) in Garo Hills, Sangma informed that three individuals have been apprehended, with efforts underway to apprehend three more.
Despite sporadic incidents, Sangma asserted that the overall law and order situation in the state remains peaceful.
“While we acknowledge the challenges in our complex society, maintaining law and order has been a priority, and we have largely succeeded in this endeavour over the years,” he said.