Meghalaya Chief Secretary D.P. Wahlang on Tuesday provided updates on the status of peace negotiations with the proscribed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC).
Speaking on the progress of the talks, Wahlang noted that while the HNLC initially showed strong interest in continuing discussions, certain complex issues on both sides created a deadlock.
“At one point, HNLC was very keen to continue with the discussions,” he said. “However, there were certain tricky points from both their side and ours, and we couldn’t reach a point of convergence. We asked them to return, hold internal discussions, and come back when they have complete clarity and a common ground for convergence. They held meetings among themselves but have not yet returned. We are waiting. Our doors remain open, and that is the most important thing.”
Wahlang emphasised that while the government is open to dialogue, some issues remain non-negotiable.
“There are certain items which are non-negotiable and others that are negotiable. On non-negotiable issues, we cannot compromise, especially since the Ministry of Home Affairs is also involved in this process,” he said.
