SHILLONG : Former Rajya Sabha MP Dr Wanweiroy Kharlukhi has urged voters in Jaintia Hills to reject the Voice of the People Party (VPP), accusing it of attempting to erase the name ‘Jaintia’ and promoting the practice of accepting money without voting during elections.
Kharlukhi made the remarks while addressing an election campaign meeting at Sutnga in East Jaintia Hills on Tuesday in support of Congress president Vincent H Pala, who is contesting the upcoming Shillong Lok Sabha by-election.
Referring to Sutnga’s historical importance, Kharlukhi questioned the VPP’s alleged position on the name ‘Jaintia’, saying it was an attack on the history, identity and pride of the community.
He recalled that a Jaintia king originated from Sutnga and ruled the Jaintia Kingdom. He also pointed out that following the establishment of the autonomous district council, the region was known as the United Khasi-Jaintia Hills.
“I do not know what is the reason behind the VPP wanting to do away with the name ‘Jaintia’,” he said, urging the people to protect their historical identity and maintain unity within the community.
Kharlukhi further criticised the VPP over its reported advice to voters to accept money offered during elections but not cast their votes for the candidates.
Taking a swipe at the party’s leaders, he accused them of presenting themselves as morally upright while encouraging dishonest electoral practices.
“If you take money and do not cast your vote, you are a liar. If you take money, you should also give your vote to the one who offers that money,” he said.
He maintained that a political party advocating such a practice could not claim to be committed to cleaning up politics.
Meanwhile, responding to allegations of corruption and misuse of funds during his tenure as a Rajya Sabha MP, Kharlukhi challenged his critics to produce evidence of any wrongdoing.
He said details of the schemes implemented during his tenure could be verified through the offices of the deputy commissioners and block development officers.
“If you find that I have misused even a single paise, I am ready to go to jail myself,” he said, adding that he was prepared to leave politics if any misappropriation was established.