EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
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Is Meghalaya TMC President Charles Pyngrope Planning to Rejoin Congress? Speculation over Meghalaya TMC President Charles Pyngrope’s political future has gained momentum after the TMC Nongthymmai block has dissolve and a significant number of TMC leaders and supporters, aligned with Pyngrope, now joined the Congress. An induction ceremony held at Congress Bhawan on Friday to welcome these new members has fueled discussions about Pyngrope’s next move.
In an interview to Meghalaya News 24, Leader of the Opposition and Congress MLA Ronnie V Lyngdoh hinted at a possible shift, stating, “I think that should be a very clear message to the people of the state. The president of the Meghalaya Trinamool Congress, the President himself, has dissolved the entire block there (Nongthymmai) TMC block and asked his supporters to join the Congress, that says a very loud and clear message… It is only the Congress that can serve the people of Meghalaya.”
“Trinamool Congress has dissolved its block and when the president himself is the MLA of that area. I think it is a very loud and clear message, there is no ambiguity about it,” he added.
When asked about the Congress’s readiness to welcome former CM Dr. Mukul Sangma back into its fold, Lyngdoh replied, “Anyone who is willing to join, we will welcome to join the Congress party. Because we are here, not only to fight elections, but we are here to serve the interests of the people, to serve the state.”
Lyngdoh also revealed that several legislators, potentially seven to eight, are interested in joining the Congress ahead of the 2028 Assembly elections, despite the challenges posed by the anti-defection law.
At the same time, Lyngdoh dismissed rumors about dissatisfaction with the leadership of Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) President Vincent H. Pala.
Meanwhile, the MPCC marked a significant milestone, inducting over 500 new members from various political parties, including the NPP, VPP, and UDP, at a ceremony in Shillong.
This influx of members, welcomed by Congress leaders such as Lyngdoh, MDC PN Syiem, and Working President Debora Marak, reflects the party’s efforts to strengthen its base.
Lyngdoh expressed optimism about the addition of committed members, while Syiem emphasized the Congress’s role in nurturing leaders to drive the state’s development.
Addressing the gathering, party’s leader PN Syiem emphasized the importance of the Congress playing a critical role in forming a dynamic team of young and experienced leaders to drive Meghalaya’s development.
“As the Congress prepares for future challenges, its focus remains on revitalizing its presence in Meghalaya’s political landscape and working for the people of the state,” Syiem said.