SHILLONG, SEP 16: NPP leader and cabinet minister Rakkam A Sangma has asserted that the upcoming Gambegre bye-election will be a contest between the National People’s Party (NPP) and the Trinamool Congress (TMC), dismissing the Congress as a fading force.
According to him, the opposition Congress has no future in Garo Hills region.
Rakkam emphasized that the opposition Congress no longer holds sway in the Garo Hills region. “Congress does not have a future. Look, three of their MLAs have joined the ruling NPP. I mean, Congress has become emptied. So, therefore, I think there is no future and no hope for Congress,” he stated. He also added that with Congress losing its key MLAs, voters are unlikely to back them in the upcoming election.
Reflecting on the campaigns he had attended, Rakkam shared, “It was very inspiring to see people coming out in support of the NPP, but as of now, it looks like the contest is between the NPP and the TMC.”
Addressing claims that developmental work in Gambegre only began due to the bye-election, Rakkam dismissed the allegations. “Had it been a bye-election in Siju, we would have talked about all the developmental projects there. Since we are having a bye-election in Gambegre, we only talk about Gambegre. It is our duty…Let us be factual, people,” he remarked.
Regarding the TMC, Rakkam said, “It is the people’s choice, but support for Congress is not there as you would expect. Many have already joined NPP from TMC because they know voting for Congress or TMC means sitting in opposition, while voting for NPP ensures development from the government.”
On the BJP’s chances, Rakkam was skeptical, stating, “In 2023, Prime Minister came to Tura for the election. Did people vote for BJP? No. It is very dynamic, it is not about the party. People have become wise, they know how to decide.”
Responding to accusations of dynasty politics in the selection of the NPP candidate, Rakkam clarified, “Who says dynasty? It is the choice of the people of Gambegre. The people requested madam (CM’s wife) to be the candidate, and the leadership listened. It’s not about dynasty but giving the opportunity to serve the people better.”