Shillong: The Voice of the People Party is brushing off criticism that its political momentum is stalling ahead of the upcoming Shillong by-poll. While political rivals like the National People’s Party and the United Democratic Party claim the VPP is struggling to draw crowds, the party insists its current campaign style is a calculated choice.
The parliamentary seat became vacant following the passing of Dr. Ricky AJ Syngkon. Although the Election Commission has yet to set an official date, the VPP has begun a grassroots outreach program. Party spokesperson Batskhem Airpeace Rani described these activities as a warm-up phase rather than a full-scale offensive.
Rani noted that smaller, localized meetings in villages and marketplaces help the party avoid the high-spending tactics seen in conventional electioneering. The VPP actively rejects providing transport, food, or large event setups to draw crowds, opting instead to focus on educating voters about its 10-point charter of demands, which includes implementing the Inner Line Permit and securing constitutional status for the Khasi language.
Addressing the modest turnout during these early stages, Rani said, “Since it is not yet the peak campaign period, the turnout was modest because we did not organise a major campaign.” He added that the party deliberately avoided large mobilizations while people remain focused on daily responsibilities and seasonal weather challenges.
The party maintains that this austerity-focused approach reinforces its brand of clean politics. Leadership remains confident that support will swell as the election nears, pointing to the 2024 Lok Sabha cycle as evidence that their movement traditionally starts with modest interactions before building significant momentum.
Comments