SHILLONG: Following the recent departure of Mylliem MLA Ronnie V. Lyngdoh to the National People’s Party (NPP), Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) President Vincent H. Pala has asserted that the move has not dampened the party’s momentum or dedication in the constituency.
Speaking on the matter, Pala emphasized that the Congress remains resilient and is actively restructuring its grassroots presence to counter the political shift.
In a significant show of unity following the MLA’s exit, the Mylliem Congress held a reorganization meeting where the Block Congress Committee (BCC) was formally reconstituted.
This revitalization was marked by the collaborative efforts of Banphira Basaiawmoit and Lionel Nongkhlaw, the latter of whom has taken charge as the President of the Mylliem BCC. Pala clarified that this development signals the beginning of a broader state-wide initiative to strengthen various blocks and committees that are now fully prepared for active duty.
The MPCC President’s visit to Mylliem was specifically aimed at fostering closer ties with grassroots workers, a strategy he noted is being implemented across all regions of the state.
The primary objective of these newly formed Block Committees is to educate the public on the core principles of the Congress Party and to solidify its foundation at the local level. During the proceedings, Pala offered his best wishes to the new office bearers and urged them to bolster existing units while simultaneously reviving those that had become inactive.
Pala used the platform to issue a stern warning regarding several legislative bills proposed by the BJP-led central government. He expressed deep concern over the potential impact of the Women’s Reservation Bill, Delimitation, and specifically, amendments to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA).
Pala argued that changes to the FCRA pose a significant threat to minority religious institutions, including the Catholic and Presbyterian churches, among others.
Furthermore, the MPCC Chief highlighted that in many BJP-ruled states, the passage of Anti-Conversion Bills has led to the harassment and arrest of priests, sisters, pastors, and other religious leaders.
He characterized these legislative moves as a direct threat to the Constitution and fundamental human rights. Despite the defection of certain leaders, Pala maintained that the majority of supporters remain loyal to the Congress because they recognize that other parties often lack a solid foundation and only offer superficial representation.
He concluded by calling on party leaders to remain steadfast, asserting that the Congress is the only political entity dedicated to protecting minorities and standing with the people.
