Meghalaya: UDP seeks parliamentary meet amid internal discord
Shillong, Aug 19
Amid reports of growing differences within the United Democratic Party in Meghalaya, senior party leader and West Shillong legislator Paul Lyngdoh on Wednesday sought an early meeting of the party's parliamentary wing to address grievances raised by its legislators.
Lyngdoh, however, played down reports of serious internal discord, saying differences and internal discussions are a common feature of political parties.
He told reporters after a special meeting of the UDP that "there are rumblings in almost every political party, but those are being debated and discussed as we speak."
He said the regional party's immediate priority was to strengthen unity and internal coordination among its leaders and legislators.
"The focus is on strengthening the bonding within the party," he said.
Lyngdoh added that the party council also viewed concerns expressed by UDP legislators as issues to be discussed and resolved without delay.
"The view of the council is that the party president should immediately call a parliamentary party meeting and discuss all grievances aired by the MLAs in the party," he said.
His remarks come amid speculation over the political stability of the UDP, one of Meghalaya's key regional parties and an important player in the state's coalition politics.
The development has also triggered speculation that some UDP legislators may move closer to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with suggestions that a section of MLAs could explore a merger.
Asked specifically about UDP legislators joining or merging with the BJP, Lyngdoh said he did not have enough information to comment on the reports.
"I have only heard rumours, but I am not in a position to comment since I do not have much information," he said.
The UDP is a significant regional political force in Meghalaya and has traditionally maintained its independent political identity while playing a role in the state's coalition governments.
With internal grievances now being pushed toward a parliamentary party discussion, the proposed meeting is likely to be closely watched for signs of the party's internal cohesion and political direction.
For the moment, Lyngdoh's emphasis remained on dialogue within the party rather than speculation over any immediate realignment.
— IANS
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