Shillong: Veteran politician Martle Mukhim says regionalism in Meghalaya is dying. He blames a growing reliance on Delhi for stripping local parties of their core mission. The possible jump of nine UDP legislators to the BJP sparked his outrage. He views this move as a blatant betrayal of the Khun Hynniewtrep people.
Mukhim led groups like the PDIC and the MDP in the past. He fears the UDP, once the state's top regional power, is losing its grip. "I had always believed that regional parties should work for the interests of the indigenous people. But the situation today makes it appear that regional parties may disappear altogether," Mukhim said. He argues these outfits now follow orders from national leaders instead of protecting state interests.
The veteran also hammered the VPP for poor political conduct. He calls current debates in the Assembly childish. "Today, it appears there is no longer respect among elected representatives. It is like dogs fighting over a piece of meat on the road," he noted. He claims VPP promises lack a clear path for success.
Health issues and a lack of a solid platform will keep Mukhim out of the Shillong Lok Sabha by-election. He is not retiring, though. He recently started the Political Affairs Committee to fill the local leadership vacuum. Mukhim insists this committee will push for better governance and stay active in public life.
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