Shillong, Feb 17: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday informed that the government has received more names for the role of the interlocutor to officially start the peace talks with the proscribed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC). At the same time, he also shared that the Centre is also keen to take forward the peace talks with the militant outfit.
Stating that the state government is in the process of finalizing the names for appointment of an interlocutor, he said, “We have more names coming in and we will discuss and have a broad consultation especially with the cabinet.”
On the meeting with Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the steps to be taken to take HNLC’s offer of ‘unconditional’ peace talks forward, the CM said, “We got a very positive response from Government of India. Government of India is also keen to take this forward but, of course, we need to ensure that the way we move forward has to be properly defined.”
Refusing to divulge more details on the outcome of his meeting with the Union Home Secretary in New Delhi, the chief minister however said, “We are in the process and we are hopeful to take the entire process much faster.”
He also assured that some more developments will be taking place by early next week.
Peace talks to start very soon: Tynsong
Earlier in the day, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong said the peace talks with HNLC will start once an interlocutor is appointed by the government.
He said the government is waiting for a few more formalities to be completed and very soon the peace dialogue will start.
Assam – Meghalaya boundary agreement
On the boundary agreement with Assam, Tynsong informed that the Union Home Minister Amit Shah will soon fix a date for meeting the chief ministers of the two states.
“Yes, we will take up all the issues (including ILP). Whatever pending issues we will take it up once we meet the Union Home Minister,” he assured. He, however, said it is up to the Union Home Minister to call the state government for discussion on these issues.
