Shillong: Meghalaya’s political heavyweights are camping in New Delhi. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma arrived in the capital alongside his two deputies, Prestone Tynsong and Sniawbhalang Dhar. Opposition leader Mukul M. Sangma is also present with his family. The scramble follows a major shift in the 60-member state assembly.
Eight of 12 United Democratic Party legislators joined the BJP on Wednesday. This move boosted the BJP from two seats to 10. The UDP dropped to four. Both parties remain in the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance government.
Speculation mounts over power-sharing. Insiders suggest the BJP wants four cabinet berths and a Deputy Chief Minister seat. Such a move would force a reshuffle. Names like Brening A. Sangma, Timothy D. Shira, and Methodius Dkhar could face the axe. Kyrmen Shylla is also rumored for a potential role. The Chief Minister dismissed these concerns. He said, "The BJP did not demand additional Cabinet berths and that the UDP legislators’ move would not affect the functioning of the MDA government."
The BJP currently has Sanbor Shullai and recent recruit Lahkmen Rymbui in the cabinet. Alexander L. Hek claims more NPP and TMC lawmakers are looking to defect. Negotiations are ongoing. The political landscape remains fluid as leaders wait for a signal from the capital.
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