By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: The appointment of Dr Mukul Sangma as the Chief Minister of the State for the second consecutive term has brought new hopes and expectations for the people of Garo Hills who are rejoicing the feat of the 48-year-old professional doctor cum politician.
The Shillong Times spoke to several people from Garo Hills to know their expectations for the next five years under the leadership of Dr Sangma.
Garo Students’ Union (GSU) president TG Momin said he was proud of the fact that an individual from Garo Hills has become the Chief Minister for the second consecutive term.
“We hope that there will be all round development of the State,” he said while adding that the Chief Minister should fulfill the promises of starting a medical college in Tura besides making the Baljek Airport functional.
Chairman of the United Workers’ Forum, Rakkan Sangma, said the people of Garo Hills are happy that Mukul has been elected as the Chief Minister for the second time in a row.
“We hope that he will bring more projects from the Central Government and accordingly implement it,” he added.
A Church leader from Garo Hills, who did not wish to be identified, hoped that Dr Sangma will take all steps to improve the law and order situation in Garo Hills.
Nimarson Momin, who had lost the February 23 election to Dikkanchi Shira, wife of Dr Mukul Sangma, said he had no issues with Mukul Sangma being appointed as the Chief Minister.
“But we feel that he has manipulated the voting,” Momin said, even though he admitted that Mukul Sangma was a dynamic leader.
ANVC-B chairman Rimpu Marak said, “It is a proud moment for the people of Garo Hills,” and added that the outfit was looking forward for a peaceful solution to their demands.
It may be mentioned that Dr Sangma is the fourth Chief Minister from Garo Hills after Capt WA Sangma, Purno A Sangma and SC Marak.
Dr Mukul Sangma had become the Chief Minister in 2010 when he took over the reins of the government from DD Lapang and since then the Chief Minister has survived all odds to retain the chair.
