Meghalaya deputy CM urges members of insurgent groups to lay down arms, return to mainstream

Deputy Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Prestone Tynsong, on February 28, made a direct appeal to remaining members of insurgent groups to return to the mainstream, assuring full government support for their rehabilitation and reintegration.

“My appeal to all those members of the agencies, better come back to the mainstream. We are there, the government is there to help you out. We will think about how to ensure that your career comes back to the mainstream,” Tynsong said.

He underscored the state government’s commitment to providing a pathway for former cadres to rebuild their lives, stressing that both the State and Central governments are prepared to facilitate their return to civil society.

“Be it from the Central Government or the State Government, we would like to see the cadres come out and join us in the mainstream,” he added.

The surrender is being viewed as a morale booster for security agencies and a potential indicator of weakening militant structures in parts of Meghalaya. Over the past few years, coordinated efforts between state police and central agencies have focused on dismantling insurgent networks while simultaneously encouraging dialogue and rehabilitation.

An area commander of the outlawed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC), who was active in the West Khasi Hills region, surrendered before police in Mairang, Eastern West Khasi Hills, on February 27. He was subsequently escorted to meet the Director General of Police for further formalities.

While official details of the surrender remain under wraps due to operational sensitivity, senior police sources confirmed that the surrendered militant has shared actionable intelligence. Authorities said the information is currently being verified and processed, adding that confidentiality is crucial at this stage to avoid jeopardising ongoing and future operations.