Shillong: The proscribed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) has claimed full responsibility for the recent IED incident in Umsning, Ri Bhoi District, describing the act as a “symbolic protest” against alleged betrayal of the Jaidbynriew community by corrupt politicians and businessmen.
In a statement issued on Monday, HNLC General Secretary Sainkupar Nongtraw accused certain political leaders of sheltering non-tribal settlers, facilitating land transfers, and supporting external interests that threaten the community’s identity and resources.
He claimed the IED had been planted outside the residence of former minister Nehlang Lyngdoh.
“Trust of the Jaidbynriew is not a privilege to be sold or traded,” Nongtraw said.
“Leaders must protect our land, resources, and identity, not compromise them for personal or political gain. Acts of betrayal by those in power amount to political treason against our people and ancestors.”
The HNLC warned that it would confront and expose those colluding with outsiders and asserted that political authority should reflect the will of the people, not the favour of external interests.
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Nongtraw further claimed that the outfit possesses the military capability to act against self-serving politicians, irrespective of their official position.
He recalled past operations by the HNLC, including an IED planted near the Shillong SP office in 2004, which went undetonated, and a 2021 attack at the Khliehriat police reserve that resulted in casualties.
Nongtraw alleged that authorities chose to suppress information about these incidents.
“This is a final reminder that political authority must be rooted in the people’s will. Those acting against the interests of the Jaidbynriew will lose the moral right to leadership, and the HNLC has the capacity to confront them, whether in power or not,” he concluded.
