Tribunal likely to extend ban on ANVC and HNLC

Shillong, May 8 (UNI) The ban on the two Meghalaya-based militant outfits, the Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) and the A'chik National Volunteers Council (ANVC), is likely to be extended by another two years, official sources said here today.

The Additional Solicitor General would depose his views before the Judge of the Tribunal at the national capital tomorrow, the official said.

The ban is likely to be extended to both the militant outfits as the government, during the hearing, had made the submission that both the organisations were still engaged in unlawful activities.

Both the HNLC and ANVC were proscribed on November 16, 2000.

The banned ANVC which is fighting for homeland called 'Achik Land' in the areas of Garo Hills is currently on a ceasefire with the government since July 23, 2004. The HNLC, which is fighting for a 'sovereign Hynniewtrep homeland', is regarded now as a demoralised outfit as most of its top cadres have surrendered to the government.

Taking advantage of the ceasefire pact, ANVC general secretary Wanding R Marak appeared before the tribunal pleading to lift the ban. However, there was no representative from HNLC.

UNI