NCP, BJP offer to dissident Cong MLAs for alternative govt

Shillong, June 8 (UNI) In an opportunity to make use of the dissidence in the Congress that heads Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA), main opposition NCP today offered unconditional support to the rebel Congress MLAs and regional political parties for an alternative government.

The BJP, with its two legislators, also gave the indication saying the rebel Congress group could form a new government on its own with the ''unconditional support'' of the total 12 opposition legislators.

At least 20 the 29 Congress legislators in the 60-member assembly have already revolted against the Chief Minister D D Lapang asking him to step down ''gracefully'' NCP MLA Admiral K Sangma told UNI here that his party was ready to extend support to the rebel Congress group and even to the four regional political parties for an alternative government.

''We will support anyone to form the Congress barring Mr Lapang'', Mr Sangma categorically said.

However, he said the NCP was more keen on extending ''direct or indirect'' support the regional political parties rather than the Congress.

Meghalaya State Unit BJP President Alexnader Hek said he had already discussed on the issue with president of the Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM) Paul Lyngdoh.

Mr Hek also claimed that he had talks with various regional party leaders for an alternative government.

However, Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Dr. Donkupar Roy, the president of United Democratic Party, said ''no one, including Mr Hek, discussed the matter with him''.

The UDP, the main regional ally of the Congress, made it clear that it would continue to support the Congress government under anyone's leadership.

The Lapang-led MDA coaltion comprises Congress (29), United Democratic Party (8), Meghalaya Democratic Party (4), Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (2) and Hills State People's Democratic Party (2).

UNI RRK-PRS TJP PK ND1418