SHILLONG, Feb 10: NPP on Friday asserted that there was no place for violence in poll-bound Meghalaya even as the party urged citizens to reject “bad electoral practices” like violent electioneering as is the norm in West Bengal.
Referring to the recent clash in Phulbari between TMC and NPP workers, NPP spokesperson Ampareen Lyngdoh said, “In a state like West Bengal, this is a typical scenario but in Meghalaya, we don’t do such things. Each political candidate here peacefully conduct their campaign but in this case, you are seeing this oppressive behavior that is surfacing in public domain. We have to make sure that Meghalaya does not copy such bad practices like these from other states,” Lyngdoh said
According to Lyngdoh, there are many states in India where violence is prominent during polls but in Meghalaya, there has always been mutual respect between parties,” she said.
Stressing on the need to reach to the bottom of the matter, Lyngdoh said that the administration has to take a tough stand. Whoever has crossed the line need to be taken to book,” Lyngdoh added.
The NPP on Friday pitched for a violence-free poll in the state but maintained that in case there is any violence again it will be the handiwork of the TMC as they are growing desperate by the day for their inability to keep up with the NPP in the electoral battle.
NPP spokesperson and Williamnagar candidate, Marcuise N Marak also pitched for peaceful polls. “We are for peaceful and violence-free elections. There should not be any trouble anymore, but if there is it will be them (TMC) doing it,” Marak said.
According to him the TMC stands desperate as the NPP wave is only growing and this is resulting in the TMC resorting to desperate attempts.
“NPP is doing very well. Campaigns are going on smoothly and people are responding positively. We hope to get majority here,” he said further adding that the TMC can’t stand this and is growing desperate by the day.
He claimed, “NPP never attacks. We believe in peaceful elections…that is our motto.”
Referring to the continuous attack of Opposition leader Mukul Sangma, he said that this only means they are desperate and it clearly shows. Their allegations against the NPP hold no water, he said.
The NPP spokesperson also called the State BJP claims of making inroads routes in the state, particularly in Garo Hills region, as a farce.
“Name the constituencies? It is their claim only as practically it is a Christian state and people here do not like the BJP,” he said.
Pointing out the numerous reports of atrocities against the Christians in the BJP-ruled neighbouring state of Assam, he said that the people of the state are aware of the happenings and this will impact the BJP gravely here.
“This will definitely take a toll on the BJP in the elections,” he added.
