Shillong, Aug 15 (IANS) A shutdown called by a militant group affected life in Meghalaya Monday even as the state celebrated India's Independence Day.
The protest was called by the outlawed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC). The HNLC, which conducts hit-and-run raids from hideout in Bangladesh, wants a sovereign Khasi homeland in the state.
In capital Shillong, Chief Minister Mukul Sangma unfurled the national flag and took the salute at a ceremonial parade.
"Armed insurgency, extortion and other anti-national activities will not be tolerated and shall be dealt with a firm hand," Sangma said.
Urging the insurgents to surrender, he said: "They should see the writing on the wall. There is no room for a violent movement in a democracy, while there is tremendous scope for resolving all issues."