SHILLONG : National People’s Party (NPP) National Vice President and Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar on Friday expressed confidence that the party will lead in all five constituencies of Ri Bhoi district in the upcoming Shillong Lok Sabha byelection, citing what he described as growing support for the party across the Khasi and Jaintia Hills regions.
Speaking at an election campaign meeting in Patharkhmah in support of NPP candidate Dr DRL Nonglait, Dhar said the response from voters indicated that the party’s message was gaining traction across the state.
“In the Jaintia Hills region he already has full support. In Ri-Bhoi we will lead in all five constituencies. Go to West Khasi Hills — no need to even discuss — we will win with honour. Even in East Khasi Hills we are growing every day,” Dhar said.
He attributed the claimed increase in support for the NPP to the performance of the NPP-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government.
“The people have realised the NPP government works and talks less. Today, intellectuals and citizens alike understand that to run the state you need a sensible party, not one that is only big on speeches,” he said.
Dhar Pitches Nonglait as Candidate With Academic and Grassroots Experience
Dhar projected Dr Nonglait, a NEHU professor with multiple academic degrees, as a candidate who combines strong educational credentials with grassroots experience.
He said Nonglait’s humble background would help him understand the challenges faced by ordinary citizens.
“The decision to field Dr Nonglait was not taken by the party alone. We consulted leaders from all 36 constituencies and spoke with one voice. Everyone agreed he is the right person to represent Khasi, Jaintia and Meghalaya in Parliament,” Dhar said.
Urging voters to participate in the byelection, which is likely to be held in October or November, Dhar appealed to supporters to vote for the NPP’s book symbol.
“Come out on polling day, men, women and youth. Cast your valuable vote so Dr Nonglait wins with honour. Only then can we work properly for the state and for your constituency,” he said.
Dhar Highlights MDA Government’s Development Record
The Deputy Chief Minister also highlighted what he described as development achieved under Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma over the past eight years.
He said Meghalaya has gained national recognition for its work in areas including tourism, roads, healthcare and sports, as well as for implementing central government schemes worth thousands of crores.
Dhar also praised Jirang MLA Sosthenes Sohtun for infrastructure development in the constituency, claiming that nearly 95% of roads in Jirang have been covered.
He said Jirang is expected to feature prominently in the next phase of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), which he said is expected to begin around September-October.
Dhar Says NDA-Aligned MP Could Benefit Meghalaya
Dhar concluded by arguing that electing an MP from the same NDA dispensation at the Centre would help Meghalaya secure greater benefits and push development projects for the state.
“If we get an MP from the same government, imagine how many blessings you will receive,” he told the gathering.