SHILLONG, March 4: A majority of MLAs from the Opposition bench were absent from the House on Tuesday during the discussion on a motion regarding infrastructure and the allocation of additional funds for programmes meant for border areas.
On the third day of the Assembly budget session, UDP MLA from Nongpoh, Mayralborn Syiem, moved a resolution to address issues related to infrastructure and fund allocation under the Inter-State Border Areas Development Programme. He also urged the government to pursue the Centre for the reimplementation of the Border Areas Development Programme (BADP).
Interestingly, only TMC MLA from Nongthymmai, Charles Pyngrope, was present in the opposition bench during the discussion.
This lack of attendance has raised serious questions about the opposition MLAs’ commitment to amplifying the voices of the people on the floor of the House.
Ironically, VPP-elected MLAs have often complained about the limited time allotted for discussions during Assembly sessions, arguing that this constraint forces them to take to the streets to raise their concerns. Responding to the motion, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma pointed out that the opposition had been given time to raise issues of public importance.
“It would be good if we were all present in the House. I believe it is important to have the patience to listen to the replies, as a lot of preparation goes into them,” Sangma said, subtly criticising the opposition MLAs for their absence.
He emphasised that opposition members frequently raise and debate issues during sessions, yet their attendance often does not reflect their concerns.
“It is only fair that members be present in the House. Sometimes, there is an argument that opposition members are not given enough time. But sadly, when the time is given, they are not even present,” he remarked.
Despite this, Sangma appreciated the ruling party MLAs for actively participating and demonstrating seriousness in the House.
On a lighter note, Charles Pyngrope pointed out that even the ruling side did not have a strong presence in the House during the discussion.
