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Meghalaya : Moderate face of HNLC surrenders |
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Labelled a moderate and sidelined by his compatriots, the chairman of one of Meghalaya’s strongest militant groups surren¬dered on July 24 before Chief Minister D.D. Lapang.
Julius Dorphang’s clout in the Hynniewtrep National Libera¬tion Council had decreased after a spat with commander-in-chief Bobby Marwein and general secretary Chesterfield Thangkiew. “He became a recluse after being sidelined for his moderate views. These developments in the outfit helped us get him on our side,” a senior police officer said.
Lapang announced the surrender to the media with the mili¬tant leader by his side. “I am very happy to announce that re¬sponding to an appeal by the government of Meghalaya to join the mainstream, Julius Dorphang and four of his colleagues decided to renounce the path of violence and confrontation.”
The Chief Minister touted the surrender as “a sacrifice made in the greater interest of peace, harmony and development of the people of Meghalaya”.
Dorphang was a member of the banned militant group since its formation in 1988. The HNLC split into two camps over strategy making and management of finances. The outfit has units in several provinces of neighbouring Bangladesh.
Lapang did not go into specifics, only saying that the development would lead to better things. “I appreciate the bold¬ness of their decision and welcome them to join the national mainstream. I understand it takes a lot of courage and character to take a decision of this magnitude,” Lapang said.
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