Begin typing your search above and press return to search.

Garo outfit invited for talks

By Raju Das

SHILLONG, Dec 15 � Unable to control the violent activities of the Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA), the Meghalaya Government has invited the outfit for talks to �facilitate their surrender.�

The GNLA has proved a major irritant for the government this year with their extortions and abductions in Garo Hills. Till recently the government chose to ignore the group dismissing it as a �bunch of criminals� waiting to be hauled up by the security forces.

However, Chief Minister Mukul Sangma today said that the government is willing to talk with the GNLA, with a singular objective of convincing the �bunch of criminals� to surrender. �We want to facilitate a system where we can ask the GNLA cadres to surrender and ensure that they come over ground,� Sangma said.

Ever since the GNLA was formed last year by disgruntled Meghalaya police Deputy Superintendent, Champion R Marak, the law and order situation in Garo Hills has worsened.

Several businessmen and legislators have received extortion demands from the fledgeling militant outfit. The group also managed to abduct a DTO and held him for over a month before releasing him.

The outfit has managed to outwit the police on many occasions fleeing their camps moments before the security forces conducted raids.

Last Sunday, a legislator from Garo Hills received an extortion demand of Rs 50 lakh from the outfit. The matter is being investigated by the police.

On the recent extortion note to the legislator, Sangma said steps are being taken to take control of the law and order situation in Garo Hills.

�We are taking steps and trying to instil confidence in the people that things are under control,� the Chief Minster added.

Next Story