Guwahati, 30th September: The Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC), a banned militant organization in Meghalaya, has issued a stern warning to Hindus in the state, urging them to oppose the entry of the “Cow Yatra” movement. In a statement released by Sainkupar Nongtraw, the HNLC’s general secretary and publicity secretary, the group expressed its refusal to tolerate any interference in local dietary customs, threatening to disrupt Hindu religious celebrations if cow protection groups proceed with their plans.
Nongtraw’s statement follows recent declarations by cow protection activists about expanding their efforts in Meghalaya, a move the HNLC leader characterized as “provocative.” He warned that such initiatives could lead to heightened tensions in the region, particularly given the state’s cultural and religious diversity, where beef consumption is common among indigenous communities.
The militant group expressed concerns about the potential rise of cow vigilantism in Meghalaya, citing violent incidents in other parts of India where individuals suspected of beef-related activities were targeted. Nongtraw referenced a Reuters report that documented 63 cow vigilante attacks between 2010 and mid-2017, resulting in 28 deaths. He stressed that the HNLC would not allow similar violence to take root in Meghalaya.
Accusing Hindu groups of imposing their cultural norms on indigenous populations, Nongtraw drew parallels to historical oppression, further intensifying the rhetoric around the issue. The statement highlighted the growing unease in Meghalaya, where attempts to introduce the “Cow Yatra” are seen by some as a challenge to the state’s traditional practices and beliefs.
The HNLC remains a proscribed organization, and their recent statements raise concerns about the potential for unrest in the region. Both state authorities and community leaders will likely be closely monitoring the situation as tensions surrounding the “Cow Yatra” movement develop.