SHILLONG: Senior leaders of the United Democratic Party (UDP) on Thursday firmly dismissed speculation of internal discord, asserting that rigorous questioning within the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly reflects democratic accountability rather than political rivalry.
Rumours of a possible rift surfaced during the ongoing Budget Session after UDP Working President and West Shillong MLA Paul Lyngdoh posed a series of pointed questions to Power Minister Metbah Lyngdoh, who also serves as the party’s president.
Addressing the media, Paul Lyngdoh clarified that legislative proceedings must remain distinct from party loyalties, describing the Assembly as the ultimate platform for public representation.
“In the House—the Temple of Democracy—we do not come wearing party jerseys. I stand here as the elected representative of 18-West Shillong, not as the Working President of the UDP,” he stated.
Lyngdoh emphasized that scrutiny among party colleagues strengthens governance rather than weakening unity. Reflecting on his own ministerial experience prior to the Cabinet reshuffle, he noted that critical questioning helps ministers gain deeper command over departmental responsibilities.
“The Minister should, in fact, be thankful. Questions raised on the floor provide an opportunity to better understand the challenges within the Power Department,” he remarked.
Echoing the sentiment, UDP President and Power Minister Metbah Lyngdoh rejected claims of factionalism, maintaining that discussions inside the Assembly are guided solely by public welfare.
“There is nothing like a rift from my side. Whatever is discussed in the House contributes to the welfare of the people,” he said.
Responding to suggestions of strained relations within the party, Metbah Lyngdoh dismissed such interpretations and underscored that legislative debate—not public confrontation—is the appropriate democratic avenue.
Questioning the idea of airing disagreements outside institutional forums, he remarked, “Which platform should we go to—Motphran, Police Bazar, or Iew Laitumkhrah? We are leaders, and we must behave constructively.”
Both leaders reiterated that concerns raised by legislators are formally noted by the government for policy consideration, reinforcing the Assembly as the proper forum for democratic engagement.
