Shillong: Eight UDP legislators are weighing a move to the BJP, a high-stakes gamble that could redefine the state’s political balance. The Meghalaya BJP, currently holding two seats, would see its numbers climb to ten if the group jumps ship. State BJP president Rikman G. Momin called the potential move a “very great achievement,” though he cautioned that the entry must come without preconditions.
State BJP general secretary Wankitbok Pohshna confirmed the party doors are open. He noted that talks regarding additional Cabinet berths remain off the table until the switch actually occurs. The decision ultimately rests with Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma and the party’s central leadership.
The migrating MLAs have reportedly presented a list of five key demands to Delhi: the inclusion of Khasi and Garo in the Eighth Schedule, resumption of coal mining, the Meghalaya Residents’ Safety and Security Act, Inner Line Permit implementation, and general identity protections. Pohshna also cited ongoing federal matters, including the FCRA status currently before a Joint Parliamentary Committee.
The political risk is significant. History shows a poor track record for turncoats in the state. In 2022, four sitting MLAs—Himalaya Muktan Shangpliang, Ferlin C.A. Sangma, Benedic R. Marak, and Samuel M. Sangma—joined the BJP and subsequently lost their seats. Only Alexander Laloo Hek and Sanbor Shullai maintained their electoral footing after switching, largely due to diverse voter bases in their constituencies.
TMC president Charles Pyngrope downplayed the impact of the potential exit on the regional landscape. While he confirmed he has received no communication from the BJP, he noted that the UDP will survive even if individual members leave. “I see the end of the MLAs of the regional forces,” Pyngrope said. He argued that the party cadre remains intact despite the potential loss of legislative seats.
VPP president Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit has already signaled opposition, warning voters that the move functions as an attempt to advance the BJP’s national agenda. With the 2028 elections looming, the eight UDP MLAs face an uphill battle to prove that their personal influence outweighs the risk of abandoning their regional platform.
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