5 remaining MLAs in Meghalaya join BJP-backed MDA

Shillong, Feb 08: The five Congress MLAs in Meghalaya on Tuesday joined the ruling MDA, which is backed by the BJP. Once a formidable opposition with 17 MLAs, the Congress was left with only five MLAs after 12 legislators, including former chief minister Mukul Sangma, defected to the TMC last year.

The Congress Legislature Party (CLP) formally handed over a letter of support to Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma.

"We the undersigned MLAs of the Indian National Congress have decided to join the MDA (Meghalaya Democratic Alliance) government today the 8th of February, 2022. We wish to support you and the MDA to strengthen the government's arms and decision making so as to ensure that our joined efforts will take the state forward, in the general interest of its citizens," the letter stated.

The letter was signed by CLP leader Ampareen Lyngdoh, and MLAs PT Sawkmie, Mayralborn Syiem, KS Marbaniang and Mohendro Rapsang. A copy of the letter was also sent to Congress president Sonia Gandhi.

"The five @INCMeghalaya (Meghalaya Congress) MLAs have decided to join the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance administration in the benefit of the people of the state, particularly our individual constituencies," Lyngdoh tweeted along with a photo of the Congress MLAs with the chief minister.

The National People's Party-led MDA government is supported by the BJP. BJP MLA Sanbor Shullai is also a minister in the Meghalaya government.

With the Congress joining the ruling alliance, only TMC occupies the opposition bench in the Meghalaya assembly.