SHILLONG : Meghalaya Chief Minister and National People’s Party (NPP) national president Conrad K Sangma on Monday said he respects former Rajya Sabha MP Dr WR Kharlukhi’s decision to resign from the party.
“It is a decision he has taken at his own level. I accept whatever his decision is,” Sangma said.
The Chief Minister said he shares a long association with Kharlukhi, dating back to the time of his late father and former Meghalaya Chief Minister PA Sangma.
Sangma said he cherishes the contributions made by Kharlukhi towards the state and the NPP over the years.
Recalling their political association, the Chief Minister said his late father had earlier wanted Kharlukhi to become a Rajya Sabha MP, but Kharlukhi had declined the offer. Thomas Sangma was subsequently nominated to the Rajya Sabha.
Sangma later ensured that Kharlukhi represented the NPP in Parliament.
While admitting that he was personally saddened by Kharlukhi’s resignation, the Chief Minister said political changes were part of public life.
“People will come and go. I didn’t expect this to happen, but I respect and accept it,” Sangma said.
Asked whether the NPP would approach Kharlukhi and request him to reconsider his decision, Sangma said the matter would be discussed with senior party leaders.
“We will discuss with party leaders and then take a call,” he said.
Kharlukhi’s resignation comes at a significant time for the NPP as the party continues to prepare for the political developments ahead in Meghalaya.