SHILLONG, DEC 22: In a strongly-worded statement issued on Monday, the opposition Voice of the People Party (VPP) president Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit denounced threats made by the proscribed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) to assassinate VPP leaders.
The remarks came a day after the militant group’s warnings against the party, which currently governs the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC), for allegedly delaying issuing of the Sanad to the Syiem of Hima Sohra.
In a video statement, Basaiawmoit said, “We are shocked and surprised to see the threat of assassination against VPP leaders reported in the media. As a party, we condemn this threat. The people voted for VPP to govern KHADC, and HNLC has no right to interfere in our functioning. Only the electorate can object if our governance style contradicts the promises we made.”
He added that discrepancies and irregularities in the administration of various himas, including Hima Sohra, have been observed, and VPP’s mandate is to introduce transparent and accountable governance at both hima and state levels.
The VPP chief also said that he is ready to be a ‘sacrificial goat’ for the benefit of the indigenous community.
“If the HNLC assassinates me or other VPP leaders, and if that brings development, peace, and benefits to the indigenous community, I am ready to be a sacrificial goat for their benefit. This threat is a big opportunity for those with ill motives against VPP, and HNLC must take full responsibility for any harm to our leaders,” he stated.
Basaiawmoit also announced that he will not seek government or police protection, placing his trust in divine providence.
“I will not seek any government or police protection because I know my life depends on the God I serve, who is my creator,” he said while quoting David saying “though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I don’t have to fear no evil for I knw that you are with me.”
Basaiawmoit questioned HNLC’s objectives, asking whether the group seeks a return to monarchical rule or independence from India, and urged the public not to be intimidated.
“What does HNLC want? Does it want to revive kingship, or does it want us to seek independence from India? These are questions HNLC must clarify to the people. As leaders of VPP, we have faced many difficulties and threats in the past, but we will not back down from walking the right path for the benefit of indigenous people.”
The VPP president reiterated the party’s commitment to good governance and the welfare of future generations, emphasizing that their actions are driven solely by the desire to secure a better future for the indigenous community.
By Our Reporter
