Shillong, Nov 15: The central government has banned the Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC), an insurgent group operating in Meghalaya, for five years, citing its involvement in violent activities and efforts to disrupt India’s sovereignty.

In an official notification, the Union Home Ministry said the HNLC has been seeking the secession of regions in Meghalaya, primarily inhabited by the Khasi and Jaintia tribes. The group is also accused of extorting funds from civilians through intimidation and violence.

The government further stated that the HNLC has maintained links with other insurgent groups in the Northeast and was involved in 48 criminal cases, including bombings and the planting of explosives, between November 2019 and June 2024.