Shillong: The Voice of the People Party (VPP) has called for a high-level investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) into serious allegations linking Meghalaya Urban Affairs Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar to the banned militant group Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC).
The demand follows a report published by the Mawphor daily on May 4, which quoted HNLC General Secretary Saiñkupar Nongtraw, claiming that the minister had financially supported the outfit during his previous tenure under the Congress-led government.
According to the report, Nongtraw alleged that Dhar had made secret financial contributions to the militant organisation in the past, but has since distanced himself following his alignment with the ruling National People’s Party (NPP).
The VPP stated that these allegations, coming directly from a proscribed group, should not be dismissed without thorough examination.
Terming the matter as one of national security and public trust, the VPP demanded an immediate, impartial investigation under the NIA’s purview.
The party has also urged the Meghalaya Government to remove Dhar from the cabinet pending the outcome of the inquiry.
In a statement released by VPP spokesperson Dr. Batskhem Myrboh, the party further expressed concern over reports of alleged custodial torture of two HNLC members, also cited in the Mawphor report.
The VPP stressed the need for independent scrutiny into the alleged human rights violations, emphasising that the rule of law must be upheld under all circumstances.
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“The people of Meghalaya deserve transparency and accountability,” the statement read.
“The Chief Minister must not remain silent. We urge him to respond to these grave allegations and ensure justice is delivered through a credible investigation.”
As of now, there has been no official response from Dhar or the Chief Minister’s Office regarding the allegations or the VPP’s demands.
