Shillong: The Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC), a proscribed rebel group based in Meghalaya, has claimed responsibility for the recent IED blast at Shillong’s Them Ïew Mawlong on March 9. In a statement issued by HNLC general secretary Saińkupar Nongtraw, the group served a one-month ultimatum to the state government to relocate the settlers living there.
The incident marks the third IED attack in Shillong since 2021, raising concerns about law enforcement’s ability to thwart such threats. HNLC General Secretary Nongtraw expressed astonishment at the police’s inability to intercept the perpetrators, emphasizing the need for enhanced security protocols.
While affirming that civilians were not targeted in the attack, Nongtraw reiterated the HNLC’s demand for the removal of police presence from the area and advocated for unrestricted public access. Additionally, the group called for the relocation of Sweepers’ Colony residents within a month, attributing their stance to longstanding grievances over land disputes.
Nongtraw criticized the perceived control of the police force by non-tribal interests, alleging political manipulation by leaders from outside the indigenous community. He singled out Deputy Chief Ministers Prestone Tynsong and Sniawbhalang Dhar, accusing them of being influenced by leaders from the Garo community rather than serving the interests of their own community.
In a parting statement, Nongtraw questioned the intellectual independence of Tynsong and Dhar, implying their susceptibility to external influence.
In January, the HNLC withdrew from the peace process, citing the government’s alleged lack of seriousness in addressing their demands.
The Harijan Panchayat Committee (HPC) on March 13 sought the Centre’s intervention into the IED blast at Them Ïew Mawlong. In a letter to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, HPC secretary Gurjit Singh said the blast that occurred on the night of March 9 has instilled a pervasive sense of fear among the residents.
Stating that walls and windows of many neighbouring houses and shops including the proposed community water supply area have been devastated by the blast.
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