In a significant political shift, eight legislators from the United Democratic Party (UDP) have officially joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in New Delhi on Wednesday. This move follows extensive discussions between the UDP members and BJP leadership, signaling a major realignment in Meghalaya’s political landscape after months of negotiations.
List of Legislators Involved
The group of eight legislators includes Lahkmen Rymbui from Amlarem, former minister Kyrmen Shylla representing Khliehriat, Olan Singh Suin of Mawsynram, Mathew Beyondstar Kurbah from Mawphlang, Mayralborn Syiem of Nongpoh, Pius Marwein representing Ranikor, Synshar Thabah from Sohiong, and Balajied Synrem of Shella.
8 UDP MLAs Join BJP, Making It 2nd Largest Political Party In Meghalaya
The legislators joined the BJP in the presence of senior party leaders, with BJP national spokesperson and senior leader Sambit Patra addressing a press conference in New Delhi on the development. The development comes after weeks of political speculation and sustained talks over the legislators’ future and a range of issues concerning Meghalaya. The entry of the eight MLAs is set to reshape the state’s political arithmetic and could have wider implications for the ruling alliance and the run-up to the 2028 Assembly elections. Former MLA and UDP leader Dr Jemino Mawthoh had joined the BJP on September 12. With these 10 MLAs, the BJP will become the second-largest party in the Meghalaya Assembly after the NPP.
The MLAs had placed specific demands before the BJP leadership: Including the Khasi language in the Eighth Schedule, legally resuming coal mining, and securing approval for amendments to the MRSSA.
