SHILLONG: Hardening his stand, KHADC CEM Pynshngain N Syiem has ruled out quitting as CEM as well as an MDC even if such a demand comes from the AICC.
Syiem on Monday met the AICC general secretary in-charge Meghalaya V Narayanasamy separately and apprised him about the style and functioning of the Chief Minister especially over the issue of the dual post Bill which was passed without holding consultations with the party MLAs and MDCs.
“The issue is no longer my personal struggle. It has now become an issue of the people. I will not step down unless I take the people who are rallying behind me into confidence,” Syiem said
The KHADC chief said that during the one to one meeting with the AICC leader he apprised him about the unhappiness of the people over the decision of the Government to pass the dual post Bill at a time when the Council led by him was trying to address the issues related to the jurisdiction of building bye laws of MUDA and the strengthening of traditional institutions.
“I have told the AICC leader that at the moment there is a feeling of unhappiness in the minds of the people since the government is trying to bulldoze its way without respecting the sentiments of the people”, Syiem said, while adding that it is the duty of the government to consult the stakeholders while taking major decisions.
Asked if there is any pressure from the AICC for him to step down, Syiem said that during the meeting, the AICC leader did not indicate anything in this regard.
The KHADC chief also asserted that he would not succumb to any pressure from any quarters.
He hoped that the High Command will understand his position and that of the people he represents.
“I am happy since the AICC leader seems to understand my stand as he gave a patient hearing to my views,” Syiem added.
