The proscribed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) has claimed responsibility for the recent Improvised Explosive Device (IED) blast in Elaka Narpuh, stating that the attack was a targeted strike against property owned by Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar for allegedly refusing to pay extortion.
According to the outfit, the IED explosion occurred at Dhar Company in Shymplong, Elaka Narpuh, East Jaintia Hills, at around 1:00 am on December 15. The blast reportedly caused significant damage to multiple vehicles belonging to the Dhar group, and the outfit has alleged that one person was killed in the incident.
In a statement issued to the media, HNLC General Secretary Sainkupar Nongtraw claimed that the incident was deliberately concealed from the public and the media.
“This incident has been intentionally hidden by Sniawbhalang Dhar for personal and political reasons, not in the interest of public safety. Only local residents are aware of what truly happened,” Nongtraw stated.
While claiming responsibility for the attack, the outfit expressed condolences to the family of the deceased but maintained that the intention was not to cause loss of life.
“Our intention has never been to harm or kill anyone, whether tribal or non-tribal. We deliberately carried out the blast at midnight or early morning to avoid casualties. The target was only Sniawbhalang Dhar’s property,” the statement said.
The banned militant group further issued a strong warning to Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar and other Khasi-Jaintia political leaders, threatening severe consequences for non-cooperation.
“Sniawbhalang, your time is running out. You stand alone in your refusal to pay, while others did not hesitate to comply. This is not a warning; it is a turning point,” Nongtraw warned.
The incident has raised serious security concerns in the East Jaintia Hills district, though official confirmation regarding the alleged casualty and damage is still awaited from authorities.