SHILLONG, Jan 15: Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) chief Vincent Pala on Tuesday accused the newly formed political party, Voice of the People Party (VPP), of focusing more on religious grounds than political issues.
He made the remark when asked whether the rise of the VPP is causing the Congress to lose ground in rural Meghalaya.
Addressing media persons after introducing the Congress party’s 18 candidates for the upcoming JHADC polls at a gathering in Jowai, Pala claimed the VPP is emulating the BJP by intertwining politics with religion.
He cautioned against this approach, calling it highly sensitive and cited examples of countries like Pakistan and Syria, where religious divisions have led to conflict.
Pala further alleged that during a recent VPP election rally, attendees felt they were at a church service rather than a political meeting.
He stressed that Meghalaya is home to diverse religions and mixing politics with religion is inappropriate.
Pala also criticised the VPP for failing to make progress on the reservation issue, which had been a key factor in its rise to popularity.
Expressing confidence in the Congress, Pala predicted the party would secure 16 to 17 seats out of the 19 constituencies in the upcoming JHADC elections.
Addressing grievances from the public, Pala said people have complained about the lack of employees at the District Council office due to months of unpaid salaries.
He argued that regional parties are unable to fulfil their promises and asserted that Congress is capable of bringing meaningful change.
So far, the Congress has fielded 18 candidates for the JHADC polls, including Romeo Lyngdoh (War Central), Madonbai Rymbai (Amwi-Khliehtyrshi), Jona Rynjah (Moodymmai Nongkhroh), Banikas Laban (Barato Mukroh), Rikut Parein (Saphai Sahsniang), Welpard Suchiang (Raliang), J. Treilang Suchiang (Shangpung), Yookini Phawa (Muthlong-Sohkynphor), Siril Suja (Sutnga-Nongkhlieh), Grimlang Dkhar (Narpuh), Bitos Sari (Mukhla-Ummulong), Katbanbiang Lamare (Nartiang), Richard Singh Lyngdoh (Mynso-Nongjngi), Saron Pasweth (Jowai South), Lalwilliama Thiaite (Saipung-Nongkhlieh), Pynbiangmi Laloo (Mowkaiaw), Brosent Siangshai (Musniang-Rangad) and Bashan Tangliang (Sumer).
It may be mentioned that the gathering in Jowai saw an enthusiastic turnout of supporters from across Jaintia Hills.
The event marked the official launch of the Congress campaign, focusing on safeguarding the rights, culture and future development of the Jaintia Hills region.
