Meghalaya: A day after quitting BJP, former MLA Shangpliang set to join NPP

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• Sep 7, 2023 | Dhupali Das

Former Mawsynram MLA Himalaya Muktan Shangpliang has announced his resignation from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday and is now...

Digital Desk: In a significant political twist, former Mawsynram MLA Himalaya Muktan Shangpliang has announced his resignation from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday and is now poised to join Meghalaya's ruling party, the National People's Party (NPP). Shangpliang made this announcement during a press conference held in Shillong on Thursday, catching the attention of political observers and the public alike.

Shangpliang's decision to switch parties comes after months of speculation and debate within the BJP regarding his future role and political ambitions. The former BJP stalwart made it clear that his decision to join the NPP was a well-considered one and was not influenced by any specific conditions or promises.

"I'm joining the NPP without any conditions. I'm making it very clear to you," Shangpliang stated emphatically during the press conference.

One of the key factors motivating his move is his admiration for Chief Minister Conrad Sangma's leadership over the past five years. Shangpliang believes that the NPP, under Sangma's guidance, has demonstrated a commitment to the growth and development of Meghalaya, making it the party best positioned to secure the state's future.

When asked about the possibility of receiving a Lok Sabha election ticket from the NPP, Shangpliang expressed his readiness to accept any responsibilities that the party's high command deems fit for him once he becomes a member of the party. This willingness to serve the party in any capacity showcases his dedication to the NPP's cause.

It's worth noting that Shangpliang had previously refuted claims made by the BJP state president regarding his alleged request for a ticket. He asserted that he never approached anyone within the party for a ticket and instead sought clarification from the party vice president when he noticed his name circulating in newspapers as a potential Lok Sabha candidate for the BJP.

"I had asked the party VP, how is it that without my knowledge, my name has come up in the press? The answer that I got was that we do not have any probable candidate or person except you so we thought about submitting your name," explained Shangpliang, shedding light on the circumstances that led to his decision to inquire within the party.

Throughout his announcement, Shangpliang expressed his gratitude for the support of his party leaders and supporters in making the decision to join the NPP. His move is expected to have a significant impact on the political landscape of Meghalaya, with the NPP gaining a seasoned politician in its ranks and the BJP facing the challenge of replacing a prominent leader. Shangpliang's formal induction into the NPP is scheduled for September 13 at the party's headquarters at 2 p.m., an event eagerly anticipated by both his supporters and political observers in the state.