Shillong: National People's Party leader Ampareen Lyngdoh believes the upcoming by-election for the Shillong Parliamentary seat will serve as a definitive test for the opposition Voice of the People Party. She suggests the contest will reveal whether the current momentum behind the VPP is a sustainable shift in voter preference or a temporary electoral trend.
Lyngdoh noted that electoral dynamics in Meghalaya often deviate from national patterns, as local voters prioritize individual candidates over party affiliations. She explained that the state’s smaller constituencies allow for personal connections between representatives and their constituents, making accessibility and personal credibility vital factors. “I have observed that from one election to another, the mood and perception of the people change. Let the by-election be over, and we will see whether this political wave continues or it is only for one term,” she said.
Reflecting on the challenges facing regional parties, Lyngdoh highlighted the difficulty of lobbying in New Delhi without the established influence of national political organizations. She emphasized that maintaining a constructive relationship with the central government is essential for securing development funding and infrastructure support for the region. Using West Bengal as a comparison, she argued that persistent confrontation with the BJP-led centre can hinder governance and project implementation.
While acknowledging that voters once preferred national parties for their parliamentary reach, Lyngdoh maintained that the final decision rests with the electorate. She declined to influence voters, stating that people in the state possess their own unique methods for evaluating candidates regardless of party labels.
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