Shillong, Apr 2: Meghalaya Chief Minister and NPP chief Conrad K. Sangma remarked on Tuesday, “Loving yourself, your language, and your people does not mean that you hate others.”

Sangma’s assertion is a response to opposition political parties who are attempting to strike an emotional chord by playing with the sentiments of the people regarding tribal identity.

“Yes, we love our people, but that does not mean that we should hate others,” he said, while making it clear that parties deviating from core issues of concern and development have nothing substantial to discuss, hence resort to making only sentimental statements on identity and language.

Without explicitly naming the local political party, VPP, the NPP chief stated, “They are against the Hindi language. They fail to realize that at times, we may need to use Hindi to discuss or resolve certain concerns of our people. If we have to speak in Hindi, we will, because for us, our people come first. We love, care for, and listen to our people.”

He further mentioned that these political parties make grand statements, like “we will not give an inch of land to Assam,” however, they lack understanding of what actions our government has taken to address the areas of contention along the Assam-Meghalaya border.

“They seek attention through political stunts, acting, and drama,” he added.

Sangma made these statements during an election meeting in Jowai, East Jaintia Hills, as he sought the people’s mandate for NPP candidate for 1-Shillong Parliamentary Constituency, Dr. M. Ampareen Lyngdoh.

He also campaigned for NPP at Sutnga and Rymbai, along with Deputy Chief Minister Snaiwbhalang Dhar and cabinet minister and NPP candidate Dr. Ampareen Lyngdoh.

NPP chief Conrad Sangma, currently on a whirlwind campaign tour across various parts of the State to garner support for party candidates, reiterated that the NPP team is working in coordination to further progress and development. He emphasized, “As a government, we have the courage to address issues that previous administrations have shied away from. We are here with a purpose, and that purpose is to serve the people of the State.”

Urging the people to engage in discussions, conversations, and if necessary, arguments regarding the Lok Sabha polls, he advised them to consider the future and vote for the candidate who can effectively represent and articulate the aspirations of the people. He also appealed to the people to vote for the NPP.

“Many will deliver lengthy lectures, but it is crucial for us to make a conscious decision to choose the best,” he added.