KLNLF signals willingness for talks

Diphu, Aug 9: The proscribed KLNLF has indicated willingness to sit at the negotiation table after maintaining an anti-talk stand for long.

KLNLF ''publicity secretary'' Thong Teron, in a message here yesterday, expressed the desire for ''meaningful dialogue'' with the state and the Centre if the longstanding demands of the Karbis and Dimasas were fulfilled.

He said the outfit would sit for ''conditional'' peace talks if the government sent positive signals and address the ''legitimate'' demands of the organisation.

Meanwhile, a cadre of the outfit was killed in a police encounter yesterday at Angkalung locality under Howraghat police station.

Police informed that acting on a tip-off, a team raided the house, where four KLNLF ultras were taking shelter.

One of the militants was killed, while the others managed to escape, police added.

Arms and ammunition were also recovered from the spot.

The KLNLF had called for a 36-hour Karbi Anglong district bandh from 1700 hours on August 14 and boycott of the Independence Day celebrations.

UNI