Shillong, June 11: Newly elected Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament James P. K. Sangma on Thursday expressed gratitude to the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) for unanimously supporting his candidature and assured that he would work in the best interests of Meghalaya and its people.
Speaking to the media after being declared elected unopposed, Sangma said that during the filing of his nomination papers, he was accompanied not only by members of his own party but also by leaders and representatives of the coalition partners, reflecting the unity and collective spirit of the MDA.
He acknowledged that discussions had taken place and several names were considered during the selection process, noting that such deliberations are a natural part of a healthy democracy. However, he said the alliance remained committed to consensus-building and ultimately arrived at a unanimous decision in his favour.
Outlining his priorities as a Rajya Sabha MP, Sangma said he would work closely with both the State Government and the Government of India to ensure the effective implementation and timely completion of various centrally sponsored schemes and development programmes in Meghalaya.
He stated that several important issues affecting the state require focused attention and assured that he would take them up in consultation with the State Government and relevant stakeholders to achieve meaningful outcomes.
Responding to a question on working alongside Members of Parliament from different political parties, Sangma stressed that elected representatives must always place the interests of the people and the state above political considerations.
“I believe that any honourable MP will always keep in mind the best interests of the people and the state. For me too, that will be the guiding principle in deciding what needs to be pursued and advocated,” he said.
Highlighting Meghalaya’s economic prospects, Sangma pointed to the state’s international border with Bangladesh and said border trade offers tremendous opportunities for growth and development.
“We share an international border with Bangladesh, and for us as a state, it makes sense to focus on trade opportunities rather than merely looking at history books. There is tremendous scope for collaboration and engagement with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry to explore new ways of increasing trade and economic activity,” he added.
Sangma emphasized that expanding cross-border trade and strengthening economic ties could unlock new avenues for investment, employment generation, and overall economic development, benefiting both Meghalaya and the wider North Eastern region.
