SHILLONG: In a move that signals a major political realignment in Meghalaya, eight United Democratic Party (UDP) legislators—led by Khliehriat MLA Kyrmen Shylla—have conditioned their formal entry into the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on a binding central commitment to resolve key state issues before the 2028 Assembly polls.
Speaking at a consultative meeting in Byndihati, East Jaintia Hills, Shylla confirmed that the group held high-level talks in New Delhi with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
Their primary demands include lifting the suspension on coal mining, implementing the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (MRSSA), constitutional recognition for the Khasi language, and relocation of Harijan Colony residents from Them Iew Mawlong.
While BJP leaders in Delhi urged immediate induction, the MLAs chose to first consult their constituents.
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Shylla emphasized the move is not a rebuke of UDP President Metbah Lyngdoh or the MDA coalition, but a calculated risk for public interest.
He warned that the group would abandon the switch if the BJP fails to fulfill these regional promises by 2028.
The meeting concluded with unanimous support from local leaders and supporters for the proposed transition.
(4FrontMedia news)
