In a significant political development, the Hon’ble Speaker of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, Shri Thomas A. Sangma, has officially accepted the merger of Shri Ronnie V. Lyngdoh, MLA of Mylliem Constituency, with the National People’s Party (NPP).
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, 30th July, the Speaker confirmed receiving Ronnie Lyngdoh’s resignation from his role as Opposition Chief Whip on the previous day, followed by a formal letter requesting a merger with the NPP.
“After careful examination of the documents, with the support of legal advisors and law officers, I found the letter to be valid and compliant with the provisions of the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution of India. Accordingly, I have accepted the merger and recognized Shri Ronnie V Lyngdoh as a member of the NPP with immediate effect,” said the Speaker.
The merger was formally accepted at around 12:30 PM, and the update will be reflected in the Assembly Bulletin.
Additionally, the Speaker informed that Shri Lyngdoh has withdrawn the Public Interest Litigation (PIL) he had filed in the Meghalaya High Court seeking the disqualification of three Congress MLAs—Dr. Celestine Lyngdoh, Shri Charles Marngar, and Shri Gabriel Wahlang—under the anti-defection law.
“In his letter, Shri Lyngdoh stated that he no longer wishes to pursue the PIL. Legal counsels will make the necessary communication to the Hon’ble High Court,” the Speaker noted.
Responding to concerns about legal ramifications or public objections, the Speaker reiterated:
“My decision has been made by the law. If there are legal objections, it is for the courts to decide.”
This development marks a major shift in the political landscape, as the Indian National Congress now holds no representation in the current Meghalaya Legislative Assembly.
Congress Reacts Strongly to MLA’s Defection
In response to the merger, Working President of the Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC), Deborah C. Marak, expressed disappointment over Ronnie V Lyngdoh’s decision.
“His resignation is unfortunate but not entirely unexpected. The Congress party stands on principles, and those who leave often do so for personal or political convenience,” she said.
Accusing the ruling NPP of unethical practices, Marak claimed:
“The NPP continues its shopping spree using money raised through corruption and the exploitation of the people of Meghalaya. The public is watching and will respond appropriately in due time.”
She likened the defection to the biblical betrayal of Judas:
“Just like Judas betrayed the one who raised him, so too have our 3+1 MLAs who were elected with the Congress symbol and have now betrayed us for silver coins.”
In a sharply worded statement, AICC Joint Secretary in charge of Meghalaya, Adv Mathew Antony, added:
“This betrayal is not just political but moral. While Ministers and MLAs purchase luxury cars and fund foreign education for their children, the people grow poorer. The source of this sudden wealth must be questioned.”
He further suggested that fear of losing the next election and denial of a future party ticket may have motivated the MLA’s defection:
“Congress will continue to fight to rid Meghalaya of this corrupt government. We will come back stronger, with new leaders and a renewed commitment to serve the people.”
