SHILLONG : The Meghalaya government has reiterated its willingness to resume peace talks with the banned militant outfit, Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC), with Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Home (Police) Prestone Tynsong stating that the “door for dialogue remains open.”
Speaking to reporters after the surrender of an HNLC area commander before Meghalaya Police, Tynsong made it clear that the initiative must now come from the outfit.
“The door for peace talks is still open – be it from the Government of India or the state government. The ball is in their court. If they decide, we can resume talks, but if they don’t, we can’t say anything on that,” he said.
The surrendered militant, described as an active area commander, laid down arms before state authorities — a development the government views as a positive sign.
Tynsong appealed to other HNLC cadres to follow suit and return to civilian life.
“My appeal to other cadres is to follow the same footsteps and join the mainstream.”
Highlighting the importance of reintegration, the Deputy Chief Minister said several factors may have influenced the commander’s decision.
“There are many reasons… ultimately, being a young man, you think properly and say, ‘I have to come back to the mainstream’.”
Assuring safety and support, Tynsong emphasized that the government is committed to protecting those who surrender.
“We are there, the government is there to help you out… once you come out, you’ll be fully protected.”
However, he refrained from commenting on whether more cadres are expected to surrender or on the current strength of the HNLC, stating that such details would be shared by police headquarters.
The state government has repeatedly maintained that peace and stability remain its top priority, urging insurgent groups to embrace dialogue and development over violence.