Shillong, October 8: Deputy Chief Minister and Nartiang MLA Sngiawbhalang Dhar has hit back at BJP leader A.L. Hek’s claim that NPP legislators were interested in joining the BJP, using a humorous analogy to question the statement.

Speaking to reporters, Dhar said, “How would you feel if I claimed your wife?” while drawing a comparison to Hek’s claim about legislators from another political party.

Dhar maintained that the National People’s Party (NPP) remained united and said the party’s unity was reflected in the collective commitment of its legislators.

Addressing concerns over the stability of the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government following the induction of eight UDP MLAs into the BJP, Dhar said such political movements would not affect the government’s stability.

He explained that the number of legislators supporting the MDA remained unchanged even if an MLA shifted from one coalition partner to another.

Dhar also urged people to judge the political situation based on developments on the ground rather than speculation or statements about possible instability.

At the same time, he said he had no reason to criticise the BJP for attempting to strengthen its organisation and expand its political base.