SHILLONG: The Meghalaya police has taken decisive action against a leader of the Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) by invoking provisions of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) along with sections under the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Storgy Lyngdoh, apprehended on March 2 at his residence in Mawlynrei, faces charges under various UAPA sections including 10, 13, 16, 17 and 18, related to association with the proscribed outfit, unlawful activities, terror activities, fundraising, and conspiracy, respectively.
Additionally, he is charged under IPC sections 120B, 506 and 507, 384, and 511, pertaining to criminal conspiracy, criminal intimidation, extortion, and attempt to commit offenses punishable with imprisonment.
Lyngdoh’s arrest follows suspicions of his involvement in fundraising activities for the banned organization.
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During the arrest, the Meghalaya police seized a mobile phone, Banglalink and Indian Airtel SIM cards, and a 1GB SD memory card.
This swift action by the police aligns with Meghalaya DGP LR Bishnoi’s recent announcement of a cyber-investigation into allegations of HNLC’s extortion via WhatsApp messages.
The HNLC’s withdrawal from tripartite peace negotiations in January heightened concerns about reconciliation efforts, prompting calls from government and opposition circles to revive peace talks.
Lyngdoh’s arrest is anticipated to exacerbate the already fragile atmosphere surrounding peace negotiations between the HNLC, the Centre, and the Meghalaya government.