By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Sep 16: The Gambegre by-election will be a critical test for BJP’s influence in Meghalaya as it seeks to expand its footprint in the state. To see this conquest through, the State BJP is preparing to contest the upcoming Gambegre by-election on its own, though the final decision rests with the party’s central leadership, as per the party.
Confirming this stance of the party on Monday, senior BJP leader and Cabinet Minister, AL Hek, however, noted that if the central leadership decides otherwise, the state unit would comply.
“We don’t want to form an alliance with anybody, but if the central leadership takes a different decision, we will have to follow it,” Hek stated.
The party’s reluctance to ally follows internal discord caused by its decision to support the NPP in the last Lok Sabha election, rather than fielding a candidate. The move led to discontent among party members, with several workers leaving the BJP.
When asked if the decision stemmed from that experience, Hek said, “We have not contested the Lok Sabha (polls), so whether it was sweet or bitter, we don’t know. We were told to support the NPP, and we did.” Hek also revealed that he had discussed the matter with several central leaders, who shared the opinion that the party should contest the Gambegre seat. As for the candidate, he mentioned that while there are many aspirants, the final decision will be made by the party’s central leadership.
“The final name will be announced from the central leadership. We can recommend the names, but the decision lies with our leadership,” he said.
Hek dismissed concerns about the Hindutva narrative affecting the party’s prospects in Gambegre, expressing confidence in the BJP’s ability to secure a victory. He emphasised that the party’s national presence and its governance in several Northeastern states demonstrate its capacity to win the Gambegre seat.
“If we work hard and the national leadership supports us, we will campaign and win,” Hek declared.
He also stressed that the BJP is the only party capable of ensuring grassroots development. “With our own people in place, it becomes easier to communicate with the centre and secure maximum support for the development of Gambegre and the entire state,” Hek added.