SHILLONG, OCT 16: Senior UDP leader and West Shillong MLA Paul Lyngdoh has said he has received feelers from both Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and National People’s Party (NPP) camps, while his constituency leaders have left the final decision on his political future to him.
“There have been feelers from both camps. I am examining each of those very closely,” Lyngdoh told reporters when asked if he is inclined to join the BJP or NPP.
He said his supporters at all levels want him to take the final call.
“I have been having interactions with my constituency leaders right down to the primary level and each of them has said that while they are giving me inputs, suggestions and ideas, they would leave the final decision to me and would respect any decision because all along they have always voted for Bah Paul as their leader and not as a member of any particular political party,” he said.
Lyngdoh however said his next move and the UDP’s future will depend on the Speaker’s decision on the petition against the eight former UDP MLAs who joined the BJP.
“A lot would hinge upon a decision which the Speaker will give based on the complaint submitted by the UDP. As the Speaker has shared a couple of days back, he is examining the matter. In a day or two, we expect to know the decision of the Speaker, based upon which we can spell out the way forward,” he said.
He noted that the eight MLAs have sought recognition as BJP members under the Tenth Schedule after leaving the UDP.
“There are a lot of factors that will have to be taken into account. Based on the subsequent order that will be passed by the Speaker, I will then know what is the latest position, how things stand and then take the final call,” he added.
Asked if he has ruled out Congress and KHNAM, Lyngdoh said, “I have not ruled out anything.”
