Correspondent
SHILLONG, AUG 31: The United Democratic Party (UDP), Meghalaya’s largest regional political outfit on Monday dismissed media reports suggesting that nine of its twelve legislators were preparing to desert the party and join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
UDP president and cabinet minister Metbah Lyngdoh clarified that all twelve MLAs remain intact and are currently in Meghalaya. “I have met all the legislators and asked them and none of them said they are joining BJP. I heard this only from the media. There is no problem in UDP as of now,” Lyngdoh told reporters.
Responding to claims that UDP legislators were rushing to New Delhi to formalise their entry into the BJP, Lyngdoh explained that nine legislators had met the Union Home Minister regarding the proposed FCRA amendment in Parliament, which was misinterpreted as a political move. He further noted that four legislators — Pius Marwein, Balajied Kupar Synrem, Kyrmen Shylla and Synshar Kupar Lyngdoh Thabah have travelled to Kolkata on personal matters, while others, including Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui, Matthew Beyondstar and Olan Sing Suin, were “very much” in Shillong.
Lyngdoh also rejected speculation of discontent within the party following last year’s cabinet reshuffle, stating that all decisions were taken collectively and that none of the MLAs expressed dissatisfaction with his leadership. “Please verify before building any news, otherwise a wrong message goes to the public. I urge media friends to carry genuine and correct information, not speculation,” he underscored.
On reports of UDP legislators being unhappy with the National People’s Party (NPP), Lyngdoh acknowledged that grievances are natural in any alliance but insisted that issues are resolved from time to time.
Meanwhile, BJP leader and cabinet minister Sanbor Shullai neither confirmed nor denied reports of UDP MLAs planning to join the BJP.
He said the party remained open to leaders from different political outfits. “We are ready to welcome everyone. Our doors are open 24 hours for MLAs, MDCs, leaders of different political parties, volunteers, social organisation leaders and members of the public,” Shullai stated.
The UDP’s denial comes amid heightened political speculation in Meghalaya, with the BJP continuing efforts to expand its influence by engaging leaders across party lines.