HNLC asks govt to address unemployment problem

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaAugust 13, 2020

The proscribed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) has asked the state government to take concrete steps in addressing the growing problem of unemployment among the local youths in the state.

In a statement issued here on Thursday, HNLC general secretary, Sainkupar Nongtraw said,“Despite the fact that we are already a rich state with plenty of natural resources but, at these times of the COVID-19 pandemic many of our people go to bed hungry. The problem of unemployment among our youths has increased twin folds. Now how would these people sustain themselves in the coming days is a big question mark to us to the people and also to the government.”

“It is high time for the government to take concrete steps to generate employment for the locals rather than allowing a section of the rich class to suck out everything that is available. The rich can sit at home for the entire year and they would still survive but the poorer sections cannot. This pandemic is an examination in itself and it shall prove whether we have passed or failed,” he said.

Nongtraw also appealed to the youths of the state to stay away from the menace of drug abuse saying that it is a form of destruction to one’s life and the society as a whole.

On the eve of its 33^rd raising day, the HNLC has also reaffirmed its unwavering revolutionary and commitment to continue the battle of struggle for as long as the state and the governments do not change their out-dated and perverse political customs.

“We are sure that nothing and no one will succeed in derailing the political objectives of our organization which has risen in arms for the conquest of peace with social justice,” Nongtraw said.

The HNLC leader also announced the outfit’s decision to launch its official flag. He explained that “the red colour stands for valor and courage and it signifies the supreme sacrifices made by our forefathers in the creation of the Hynniewtrep Land. The colour blue stands for freedom, justice and peace.”

“There are all together 42 stars (in the flag) – 15 stars on the left hand side and 15 at the right hand side signify the 30 syiems and their himas (kingdoms). The twelve rounded stars signify the 12 Dolois as it is said the land of the 30 Syiems and 12 Dolois. The seven sided golden star signifies the Hynńiewtrep Hynńiewskum (seven huts, seven nests).”

He further said the golden colour of the star stands for the rich natural resources of our land including its nature and a rich cultural heritage, while the white stars stands for the simplicity, and the humble nature of our people.

Nongtraw said the unfurling of the new flag shall take place at all the designated camps of the outfit on Friday.