SHILLONG : Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar on Thursday brushed aside indications made by VPP president Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit that he may contest from the Nartiang constituency in the 2028 Meghalaya Assembly elections, stating that everybody is free to enter the electoral fray.
Speaking to reporters, Dhar said he does not consider himself the “owner” of the constituency despite representing Nartiang for four consecutive terms.
“Why do you need to seek permission from me? I am not the owner of the constituency, I am the MLA of the constituency. Anybody can come and contest,” Dhar said.
The senior NPP leader further stated that when the 2028 elections arrive, all political parties would naturally field candidates in the constituency.
“When the 2028 election comes, why should we invite somebody? Everybody is free to contest,” he said.
Dhar also asserted that all major political parties, including the NPP, BJP, UDP and VPP, would be contesting the elections.
“Mr Sniawbhalang will contest, the UDP will contest, the BJP will also, the VPP will also contest. But I will say only one thing — in my constituency, anyone can contest. I cannot stop them,” he added.
On the NPP’s alliance with the BJP, Dhar maintained that the partnership would not negatively impact the party’s prospects in the 2028 elections.
“You see, there is no challenge in 2028. The people of the state know whom to vote and whom not to vote,” he said.
He further said that despite ideological differences, working together with the BJP helps Meghalaya secure development from the central government.
“Working with the BJP together, the ideology is different, and of course we will get development from the central government,” Dhar stated.
The Deputy Chief Minister also expressed confidence that the NPP would retain power in Meghalaya after the next Assembly elections.
“BJP will get their own seat, maybe plus minus, and NPP I think as of now more than 30. So, I think we will retain the same seats only,” he added.