The outlawed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) has released a 10-chapter manifesto seeking semi-sovereign status for the Hynniewtrep people. It calls for revisiting historical agreements like the 1947 Standstill Agreement and Instrument of Accession, claiming decades of exploitation and broken promises.
BY PC Bureau
The proscribed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) has reignited its separatist agenda by releasing a 10-chapter manifesto that calls for the recognition of Hynniewtrep’s semi-sovereign status, a restoration of autonomy, and justice for historical grievances. The outfit’s demands, outlined in what it calls a “blueprint for national rebirth,” include reversing what it claims were coerced agreements made during India’s independence in 1947.
Demands for Sovereignty
The HNLC’s manifesto accuses the Government of India of violating the Standstill Agreement of 1947 and coercing the Federation of Khasi States into signing the Instrument of Accession (IOA). These agreements, the group claims, were intended to preserve Hynniewtrep’s autonomy but were dishonored, leading to decades of exploitation and erosion of sovereignty.
“The recognition of our semi-sovereign status is not a plea but an unequivocal assertion rooted in historical agreements. The betrayal of 1947 transformed what was meant to be a respectful union into a forced inclusion,” the manifesto states.
Peace Overture
The HNLC unveiled its separatist agenda , just three days after the Meghalaya government extended an invitation for peace talks on January 16. The state government’s renewed outreach comes despite previous efforts being stalled over the HNLC’s demand for general amnesty for its leaders and cadres.
The Meghalaya government has extended yet another invitation to the proscribed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) to participate in the peace talks, despite previous efforts being derailed over demands by the outfit for a general amnesty to its leaders and cadres. pic.twitter.com/P3adjrsx7E
— DD News Meghalaya (@ddnewsshillong) January 16, 2025
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma reiterated the government’s commitment to facilitating dialogue within the constitutional framework. “We are ready to facilitate the entire peace process and address any challenges that arise,” Sangma said, urging the HNLC to engage in meaningful discussions.
Addressing the contentious demand for general amnesty, Sangma clarified that the decision rests with the central government, though the state is willing to consider amnesty on a case-by-case basis, particularly for those not involved in heinous crimes. “Safe passage has been assured, and matters like amnesty can be discussed as part of the process,” he added.
The manifesto released by the HNLC underscores its long-standing grievances and demands for justice, equality, and autonomy for the Hynniewtrep people. The timing of its release highlights the group’s intent to push its agenda ahead of the proposed talks.
The Meghalaya government remains optimistic about the possibility of reconciliation, emphasizing dialogue as the best path toward lasting peace. Sangma acknowledged the challenges but expressed hope that the renewed initiative would help resolve the long-standing conflict.
The #HNLC disapproves of #Meghalaya CM #ConradKSangma's statement over creation of land banks under Investment Meghalaya Agency, claiming it's misleading and threatens #Hynniewtrep people's autonomy and territorial rights.#NENewsTV #InvestmentMeghalayaAgency #LandTransferAct pic.twitter.com/j5hKAOIBIl
— NENewsTV (@NENEWS24x7) January 13, 2025
Call to Action
In a direct appeal to the youth, the HNLC urged them to “reject passivity and take up arms” in what it called a revolutionary liberation struggle. Declaring independence as the Hynniewtrep people’s “destiny,” the manifesto envisions a future of sovereignty, equality, and dignity under a government that respects their cultural and political identity.
The group also warned the Indian government of escalating demands for complete independence if their semi-sovereign status is not recognized. “India stands at a crossroads: honor the 1947 agreements or face justified resistance,” the HNLC said.
Global Solidarity
The manifesto positions the HNLC’s cause as part of a broader struggle for justice for indigenous peoples worldwide. It calls for solidarity from global communities to amplify their demands for sovereignty, justice, and cultural preservation.
The HNLC has framed its separatist agenda as a response to broken promises made during India’s independence. It claims that the 1947 agreements were intended to allow self-governance but instead paved the way for the exploitation of resources and the marginalization of the Hynniewtrep people.
“Our future will not be defined by betrayal but by the strength and wisdom of our people. Victory is our destiny, and we will achieve it,” the manifesto concludes.
Despite being largely peaceful, Meghalaya has experienced sporadic instances of insurgent activity. The HNLC’s renewed assertions could potentially destabilize the region, testing the state’s delicate balance between cultural identity and national integration.
Security agencies are expected to monitor the HNLC’s activities closely, given the outfit’s history and its call for armed resistance. Meanwhile, the government has yet to officially respond to the HNLC’s demands.
