VPP demands CM to drop deputy CM Dhar pending investigation into HNLC funding allegation

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMay 6, 2025

The opposition Voice of the People Party (VPP) on Tuesday demanded the immediate dropping of deputy chief minister in-charge urban affairs Sniawbhalang Dhar pending the investigation into the recent allegation made by the proscribed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) that he was “secretly” donating funds to the outfit when he was minister in the then Congress-led government.

“Given the gravity of the matter, the VPP demands that the Government of Meghalaya should immediately cause a thorough and impartial inquiry into this allegation by the National Investigating Agency as it involves security and integrity of the nation,” VPP spokesperson Batskhem Myrboh said in a statement.

“During the pendency of the investigation, the Minister concerned should be immediately dropped from the cabinet,” he said adding “The government must not remain silent in the face of such serious allegations that strike at the core of governance, ethics, and the safety of our citizens. We therefore call upon the Chief Minister to break his silence and initiate a probe immediately.”

Referring to reports, Myrboh said the banned militant outfit HNLC has accused Sniawbhalang Dhar of having financially supported the outfit during his previous tenure as a minister in the Congress-led government.

“According to the report, the HNLC General Secretary, Sainkupar Nongtraw, claimed that Dhar used to secretly donate funds to the militant organization and has now distanced himself due to his association with the ruling National People’s Party (NPP). Such a revelation coming from a known outfit, cannot be dismissed lightly,” he stated.

The VPP also expressed deep concern over the related reports of alleged custodial torture of two arrested HNLC members.

“Rule of law and human rights must be upheld under all circumstances, and any form of custodial abuse must be independently investigated. The people of Meghalaya deserve to know the truth,” Myrboh added.