Shillong: Deputy Chief Minister and National People’s Party (NPP) national vice president Sniawbhalang Dhar on Thursday expressed strong confidence that the party will emerge victorious in the upcoming Shillong Lok Sabha by-election, crediting the efforts of grassroots workers and growing public support across Meghalaya.
Speaking to reporters in Shillong, Dhar said the NPP was witnessing positive momentum ahead of the bypoll and that party workers at all levels had been working tirelessly to strengthen its position.
“We are very confident of winning this time with the support of our people. From the party’s side, we have to work hard. I am very thankful to all units and different levels across constituencies. The NPP units have worked very hard. So, it is a very positive sign for the coming by-election,” he said.
Responding to questions over the party not fielding a woman candidate, Dhar clarified that the NPP follows a consultative approach in selecting its candidates and does not impose decisions from the top leadership.
He said the party sought feedback from all 36 constituencies in the Shillong Parliamentary seat before finalising Dr. DRL Nonglait as its candidate.
“For the NPP, we never decide from the top. We always listen to the views and suggestions from all units of the 36 constituencies. They recommended Dr. DRL Nonglait and we have to accept it,” Dhar stated.
The Deputy Chief Minister also claimed that several supporters of the Voice of the People Party (VPP) were shifting their allegiance to the NPP, particularly in the Khasi and Jaintia Hills regions.
According to Dhar, the trend reflects a growing realization among voters, adding that the NPP’s support base continues to expand ahead of the crucial by-election.
“Yes, I have seen that. Especially in Jaintia Hills, they are down very much. Even in Khasi Hills, every day the numbers are decreasing across the Khasi-Jaintia region as people are realizing,” he added.