At least nine of the UDP’s 12 MLAs are reportedly in talks with the BJP, potentially reshaping Meghalaya’s political equations
Shillong: At least nine of the 12 United Democratic Party (UDP) MLAs in Meghalaya are reportedly preparing to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) following a second round of talks with BJP leaders on August 30.
According to a senior UDP leader, five legislators are travelling to New Delhi on Saturday, while the remaining MLAs are expected to arrive on Sunday. The leader attributed the move to growing dissatisfaction with UDP president Metbah Lyngdoh.
Lyngdoh, however, said he was unaware of any such development. Leaders from the UDP, BJP and Trinamool Congress (TMC) have otherwise maintained silence over the reported negotiations. Sources have also indicated that some TMC MLAs may be holding discussions with the BJP.
The BJP currently has two MLAs in Meghalaya’s 60-member Assembly. The reported entry of nine UDP legislators could significantly increase its strength and alter the balance within the ruling coalition led by Chief Minister Conrad Sangma’s National People’s Party (NPP), which has 33 MLAs.
The development could also have major implications for the 2028 Assembly elections, potentially strengthening the BJP’s presence in the Khasi and Jaintia Hills.
Also Read: “Failed to Protect Innocent Citizens”: Manipur Congress Demands CM Khemchand’s Resignation
