Did Congress Just Disappear in Meghalaya with Ronnie V Lyngdoh's Move to NPP?
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Synopsis
In a stunning political shift, Ronnie V. Lyngdoh, the only Congress MLA in Meghalaya, has joined the ruling NPP, leading to the Congress's effective disbandment in the state assembly. This article explores the implications of this merger and what it means for Meghalaya's political landscape.
Key Takeaways
- The Congress party has lost its representation in the Meghalaya Assembly.
- Ronnie V. Lyngdoh's merger with NPP strengthens the ruling party's position.
- The NPP now has a total of 32 MLAs.
- Trinamool Congress is recognized as the main opposition party.
- Congress is taking steps to rebuild its organization in the region.
Shillong, July 30 (NationPress) The sole Congress MLA of Meghalaya, Ronnie V. Lyngdoh, has made a significant political shift by joining the ruling National People's Party (NPP), effectively erasing the Congress presence in the 60-member Assembly.
Lyngdoh, who was elected from the Mylliem Assembly constituency in the East Khasi Hills District during the 2023 elections, previously served as the opposition's chief whip.
He submitted his merger letter to Assembly Speaker Thomas A Sangma in the company of senior NPP leaders, including Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar.
Upon reviewing the letter, the Speaker confirmed its compliance with Assembly rules.
"Henceforth, he (Lyngdoh) will be acknowledged as an MLA of the NPP in the Assembly," the Speaker declared.
Deputy Chief Minister Dhar also confirmed to the press that Lyngdoh officially joined the NPP on this day.
In the recent 2023 Assembly elections, the Congress party, which had a long-standing governance in the state, managed to win just five seats in the Meghalaya Assembly.
However, the party faced a setback when three of its five MLAs defected to the ruling NPP led by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on August 19 of the previous year, while another legislator, Saleng Sangma, was elected to the Lok Sabha from the Tura Parliamentary constituency in 2024, leaving the Congress with only one member in the Assembly.
The NPP's strength has now increased to 32 MLAs, consolidating its lead in the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA), which also includes the United Democratic Party (UDP) and the Hill State People’s Democratic Party (HSPDP).
The UDP comprises 11 members, while the HSPDP has two MLAs.
Additionally, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is a coalition partner in the MDA government with two MLAs.
In August 2023, the Trinamool Congress was designated as the opposition party in the Meghalaya Assembly, with party leader and former Chief Minister Mukul Sangma appointed as the Leader of the Opposition (LoP).
The Trinamool, which has five MLAs in the 60-member Assembly, had previously requested the Speaker to assign the LoP post to their party, claiming support from the lone Congress legislator, Ronnie V. Lyngdoh.
Meanwhile, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge established several committees in January to bolster the party's organization in the northeastern state following its electoral losses.
Sources within the Congress noted that the formation of these committees is a standard procedure aimed at revitalizing the party after recent electoral defeats.
According to a statement from Congress, the 13-member Pradesh Election Committee will be chaired by state Congress President Vincent H. Pala, while Saleng Sangama will lead the nine-member campaign committee.
The 12-member Political Affairs Committee will be under the leadership of AICC in-charge for Meghalaya, A Chellakumar.
Point of View
The recent political shift in Meghalaya signifies a pivotal moment for local governance and party dynamics. The departure of Ronnie V. Lyngdoh from Congress highlights the ongoing challenges faced by traditional political parties in retaining influence amidst changing voter sentiments. It raises critical questions about the future of opposition parties in the region and the evolving landscape of alliances.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Ronnie V. Lyngdoh's move to NPP signify?
Ronnie V. Lyngdoh's switch to the NPP effectively dismantles the Congress's influence in the Meghalaya Assembly, leaving them with only one MLA and shifting the political balance in favor of the ruling party.
How many MLAs does the NPP have now?
With the addition of Ronnie V. Lyngdoh, the NPP's strength has risen to 32 MLAs in the Meghalaya Assembly.
What impact does this have on the Congress party?
This move is a significant setback for Congress, which had previously held a stronger position in the Assembly, reflecting its declining influence in Meghalaya politics.
What is the current political status of the Trinamool Congress?
The Trinamool Congress is currently recognized as the opposition party in the Meghalaya Assembly, with five MLAs and Mukul Sangma serving as the Leader of the Opposition.
What committees has the Congress party established for its revival?
Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge has formed several committees to strengthen the party's organization in Meghalaya following recent electoral setbacks.
