HNLC boycots Independence Day in Meghalaya

Shillong, Aug 12 (UNI) The banned Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) has called a 24-hour Meghalaya bandh on August 15 to protest Independence Day celebrations.

The HNLC, a tribal Khasi militant outfit, operating in Khasi and Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya, said the bandh will be effective from 1800 hours of August 14 to 1800 hours of August 15.

HNLC's publicity secretary Sainkupar Nongtraw said they would continue their protest against India's Independence celeberation in the state.

The outfit also urged the public not to join the celeberation.

The patients, hospital attendants and milkmen had been kept out of the purview of the bandh.

Meanwhile, the Meghalaya government had drawn special programme for the Independence Day celebration to attract public participation.

Senior police officials said necessary security arrangements will be made for smooth conduct of the Independence Day celebration, even as the BSF personnel were keeping an extra vigil along the Indo-Bangla border.

UNI RRK SJC RL PM1945