SHILLONG: Former Chief Minister and Leader of the Opposition, Dr. Mukul Sangma, has issued a sharp warning over the state of democracy in Meghalaya, citing a breakdown in governance, political poaching, and ethical compromises among public leaders as threats to the state’s democratic framework.
Responding to reports of United Democratic Party (UDP) MLAs shifting to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Dr. Sangma argued that such realignments result from leadership failures, lack of administrative inclusiveness, and the erosion of collective cabinet accountability.
Dr. Sangma emphasized that political integrity is vital to resist central pressure and manipulation, and criticized the government for legislative failures—particularly regarding the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (MRSSA) and stalled coal mining resumption.
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He noted that efforts to amend the MRSSA beyond state legislative powers have left its implementation in limbo with the Ministry of Home Affairs, and that political promises on coal mining have yet to deliver real results.
Reaffirming the principles of federalism, Dr. Sangma condemned quid pro quo arrangements and stressed that financial devolutions to Meghalaya are constitutional rights, not political favors from Delhi.
He reiterated his commitment to defending the constitutional entitlements and interests of Meghalaya’s people.
(4Front Media news)
