The opposition Voice of the People Party (VPP) has questioned the Meghalaya government’s alleged relationship with the banned Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) following reported threats issued by the outfit against VPP leaders.Speaking to the media, VPP spokesperson Dr Batskhem Myrboh expressed concern over what he described as the government’s silence on the matter. He stated that no member of the government had publicly condemned the threats allegedly made by the HNLC against VPP leaders.“I do not know what kind of equations exist between the government and the organization,” Dr Myrboh said, adding that recent media reports suggest the militant group may have had links with certain politicians in the past.Emphasizing the responsibilities of the state, Dr Myrboh said it is the duty of the Meghalaya government to ensure law and order, peace, and tranquillity in the state.“The primary responsibility of the government is to maintain peace. Without law and order, development and progress cannot be achieved,” he said.When asked about the failure of peace talks between the government and the HNLC, the VPP spokesperson declined to comment, stating that he lacked detailed information on the issue.“I cannot comment on why talks could not be held with the HNLC, especially when negotiations were undertaken with another banned organization,” he said.Dr Myrboh reiterated that regardless of political differences, maintaining peace and stability must remain the government’s top priority for the overall development of Meghalaya.