Speaker’s decision will decide our next move: Paul Lyngdoh on UDP crisis

By - Admin 16 Oct, 2026 Comments (0) 3 Mins Read

SHILLONG, OCT 16: With eight MLAs defecting to the BJP, the United Democratic Party’s survival as a legislature party now rests with Assembly Speaker Thomas A Sangma, senior UDP leader and West Shillong MLA Paul Lyngdoh said on Wednesday.

Lyngdoh, one of the four MLAs still with the UDP, said no decision can be taken until the Speaker rules on whether the split is valid under the Tenth Schedule.

“What happens to the 8 MLAs who have submitted a petition to be recognized as members of the BJP? They have sought to be treated as members who have left the UDP under the relevant section of the Tenth Schedule,” he said.

He spelled out two possible scenarios.

“If he does not recognize the split, it means UDP remains 12. I can’t leave. If the Speaker does entertain the split, it leaves us with 4,” Lyngdoh said.

“Please bear in mind that we have a situation where there is a split in the UDP. Depending on whether the Speaker entertains and recognizes that split, then only I will know the way forward,” he added.

Asked if the remaining four, including party president Metbah Lyngdoh, will act together, Lyngdoh said that will be decided later.

“You are putting a very hypothetical question. The remaining 4 will have to wait and see what happens to the petition of the 8, whether that petition is entertained or rejected. Then the next course of action would be taken by the 4, whether they stick with UDP or move out. If they move out, they will need sufficient numbers for them to warrant a majority which is in sync with the provisions of the Tenth Schedule,” he said.

On speculation that three of the four MLAs are already inclined towards the NPP, Lyngdoh said personal inclination is irrelevant if the law does not permit a move.

“Inclination will not determine our course of action, but what actually happens on the ground will. Suppose I am inclined to join CPIM, what happens to my inclination if the 8 are told that no, you stay with UDP, this split is not recognized? Even if I wish to join any party, will the law allow me?” he said.

“Does it mean I expose myself to the possibility of being disqualified as an MLA because on his own Bah Paul has gone and joined Congress, CPM or BJP? So let’s take things step by step. Once we hear the pronouncement of the Speaker based on the complaint by the UDP, then we take the next course of action, whether I do it singly or in consultation with the other MLAs who are still in UDP,” he added.