SHILLONG: The United Democratic Party (UDP) has strongly rejected speculation of a mass defection to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), following an emergency Central Executive Committee (CEC) meeting in Shillong.
UDP General Secretary Titosstarwell Chyne clarified that the party remains united and that recent rumors of eight out of 12 MLAs preparing to switch allegiance are unfounded.
The CEC meeting, attended by President Metbah Lyngdoh, five party MLAs, and key representatives from across Meghalaya, saw legislators reaffirm their commitment to the UDP and deny any intent to leave the party.
Chyne explained that absent MLAs had provided valid reasons for their nonattendance, including personal obligations and bereavement, and their absence should not be construed as dissent.
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Addressing recent visits by some UDP MLAs to New Delhi, Chyne emphasized that travel for official or personal reasons—including meetings with central leaders—should not be conflated with political defection.
He noted that party members are free to meet national leaders, and such engagements do not indicate shifting loyalties.
Chyne also confirmed that no grievances or objections were raised regarding the leadership of UDP President Metbah Lyngdoh, and any future structural changes would be considered by the party’s General Council in accordance with UDP’s constitution.
(4FrontMedia news)
