Thaindian News

Shillong, Feb 8 (IANS) Meghalaya Chief Minister Mukul Sangma Wednesday asked the Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) — a terrorist outfit operating in western parts of the state — to lay down its arms.

“I urge all our misguided friends (GNLA) to embark on the various opportunities created by this government, which would contribute to the progress of development of our state,” Sangma told journalists.

The GNLA, headed by police officer-turned outlaw Champion R. Sangma, is fighting for a separate Garoland. It has unleashed a reign of terror in the three impoverished districts of Garo Hills region.

On the GNLA’s demand for Garoland, Sangma, a Garo leader himself, said: “There is a perceived feeling that development is taking place only in the state capital and the district headquarters, and therefore, people think that a new state will give them better opportunities.”

“In a democracy, they (GNLA) have every right to make demands but they cannot resort to violence to achieve their demands. They can go ahead with their demands within the framework of the constitution but not by violating the law,” he said.

Evading a direct reply on whether he will invite the GNLA for dialogue, Sangma said the government would enforce all laws as mandated by the constitution to ensure peace and development in the state.

In fact, Bikdot Nikjang Marak, the ‘political secretary’ of the GNLA, Tuesday said that the outfit was willing to hold talks with the central government, but not Meghalaya government.

More than 30 people, including security personnel, have been killed in Garo Hills and certain parts of West Khasi Hills district during the last one year by GNLA rebels.

The central government has declared the group a terrorist outfit under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.