Shillong, April 24: The Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) has raised strong concerns over the recently announced “ARMEX-1 2026” air raid mock drills in Meghalaya, questioning what it termed a contradiction in the government’s security approach.
In a statement, HNLC General Secretary Saiñkupar Nongtraw said that while the public is being asked to participate in blackout drills and prepare for potential air strikes, several key military installations continue to be located within densely populated areas of Shillong and its surroundings.
The outfit pointed out that major defence establishments, including the Indian Air Force’s Eastern Air Command headquarters in Upper Shillong, Shillong Cantonment, HQ 101 Area, Military Hospital, and the Umroi Military Station, are situated close to civilian settlements. It claimed that such proximity could expose civilians to risks in the event of any conflict.
Raising questions over policy decisions, the HNLC said that strategic military targets are typically considered high-value assets during wartime and argued that their presence within residential areas could increase vulnerability for non-combatants.
The organisation further urged the State Government, Autonomous District Councils, and traditional institutions not to allocate land for the expansion of military infrastructure in the region, warning that such moves could have long-term implications for local communities.
The statement also questioned the rationale behind conducting civil defence drills without addressing concerns related to the location of defence installations, calling for greater clarity from authorities on measures taken to ensure civilian safety.
The HNLC’s remarks come amid preparations for the statewide mock drill exercise, which aims to enhance public awareness and readiness in emergency situations.
