TMC-NPP alliance at GHADC shows parties can unite for people’s good: Meghalaya CM

SHILLONG, MAR 25: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Wednesday hailed the alliance between the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the National People’s Party (NPP) at the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) as a “strong message” that different political parties and leaders can go beyond party lines when it comes to the welfare of the people.

When asked about the possibility of a long-term alliance with TMC, Sangma said, “At this point in time, I should say that I am happy to see that keeping the political differences and political positions aside, the TMC and MDCs of the TMC and the leadership of the TMC and some of the independent MDCs, they came together for the rights of the people and for the concerns of the people especially the tribal community in Garo Hills.”

He added, “Therefore, this is a very positive and a very strong message to the people of Garo Hills that when it comes to the people, different political parties and leaders go beyond party lines and look at what is good for the people of the state as a whole. I think this is a shining example of that.”

Sangma expressed his appreciation for the TMC MDCs, independent MDCs, and the party leadership for their support which led to the passing of the amendment of the AD rules, making it mandatory for candidates to hold Scheduled Tribe certificates.

“I give my sense of appreciation to the MDCs of the TMC and Independent MDCs as well as the leadership for taking this very correct and bold and very strong stand to support this particular Bill and be part of this decision,” he said.

The decision to amend the AD Rules also comes after the state government’s decision to extend the current tenure of the GHADC by six months following weeks of violent protests against non-tribal participation in the council elections, which was earlier scheduled to be held on April 10.