Shillong, Dec 5: Dr. M Ampareen Lyngdoh, a senior leader of the National People’s Party (NPP) and Cabinet Minister in the Meghalaya government, emphasized the decisive influence of her party in state politics. She remarked that regardless of which party forms the Executive Committee in any of the District Council, success hinges on aligning with the NPP.
“You may have any party form an Executive Committee in any of the District Councils, but if you don’t get the blessings of the NPP, it will be difficult for you to achieve anything. That’s the way politics works,” Lyngdoh asserted.
She further highlighted the importance of cooperation with the ruling state government, saying, “Don’t underestimate us. It doesn’t matter what happens in the District Council elections. You cannot survive if you’re not on the same page with the government ruling the state.”
Highlighting the achievements of the NPP-led government, she said, “NPP is doing a good job. We have settled scores that have remained unresolved for generations. We are striving to be people-friendly. Where else will you find a Chief Minister humbling himself in unknown territories, engaging with the public through initiatives like CM Connect? Such interactions demonstrate our commitment.”
On the upcoming elections to the MDC (Member of District Council), Lyngdoh expressed optimism while acknowledging the challenges:
“How do I see the MDC elections? Like every other election. Of course, as a party, we are focused. Challenges will come, but no election is without them. If our players perform well, there’s no reason for rejection. However, if anyone has been distracted or lost their way, that’s a different matter.”
She also reflected on voter behavior and the emotional undertones that influence elections. “Somehow, nobody seems to care anymore about what has been done for constituents. It feels like some other emotion or mantra blinds the population. I hope that people will remember my contributions, what I tried to achieve, or even what I failed to do. Democracy in India often moves beyond comprehension.”
Lyngdoh also underscored the importance of unity among Northeast states to address national challenges collectively. “My political party continues to say: unite, come under one political banner. Let’s unify the Northeast and give ourselves a voice in India. The Northeast is disintegrating, and we can’t just watch this happen without an opinion. Instead of unifying, we are busy fighting within our communities. Is this what we want? In the 21st century, we should focus on unity and face a government that needs to listen to us.”
Concluding her remarks, she highlighted the need for resilience and cooperation in Meghalaya’s political environment. “We are happy to be scrutinized. Let the people decide, but the NPP will continue to strive for what’s best for the state and its people.”