NPP MP accuses VPP of supporting ‘goondaism’

SHILLONG, April 15: Rajya Sabha MP Wanwei Roy Kharlukhi has accused the VPP of opposing muscle power in principle while allegedly endorsing what he described as “goondaism” in practice.
Speaking to reporters, Kharlukhi criticised the VPP leadership for remaining silent following an alleged attack on the homes of National People’s Party (NPP) supporters by individuals he claimed were affiliated with the VPP. He pointed out that the victims of the attack belong to the Khasi-Jaintia community. “Their leaders speak of love for the jaitbynriew (community), yet they have not condemned the attack. They claim to be against muscle power, but their actions reflect support for goondaism,” Kharlukhi said.
He also took a dig at the VPP for demanding an inquiry into alleged irregularities in the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC) elections, suggesting that the party only questions the fairness of elections when the results do not favour them.
Earlier on Monday, the VPP had called for a probe to hold the state government accountable, alleging that it had failed to ensure free and fair elections in the JHADC.
The JHADC polls were held on February 21, alongside the elections to the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC). Results were declared on February 24. The VPP emerged as the ruling party in the KHADC and secured the second-highest number of seats in the JHADC, after the NPP.
In a letter to Chief Secretary Donald P Wahlang, VPP general secretary and Shillong MP Ricky AJ Syngkon claimed that several polling stations had been identified as sensitive or highly sensitive based on ground reports. He said the party had requested the District Election Officers of West and East Jaintia Hills to ensure adequate security arrangements.
Kharlukhi to hang his boots as MP
Lone Rajya Sabha MP Wanwei Roy Kharlukhi announced on Tuesday that he will not seek a second term in the Upper House of Parliament. “I will be turning 70 by the time the next term begins. I wish to retire and allow a younger leader to take on the responsibility,” Kharlukhi said. He confirmed that his party will decide on the nominee for the upcoming Rajya Sabha seat.
When asked about speculation that former Home Minister James PK Sangma might be the party’s choice, Kharlukhi said he was unaware of any such development.
He also emphasised the need for stronger representation of the North Eastern region in Parliament. “Only then can we expect progress on key issues like the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) and the inclusion of Khasi and Garo languages in the Eighth Schedule. Without a stronger voice in Parliament, it will be difficult to exert pressure on the Centre,” he stated.
Addressing concerns about the party’s current standing—with only one MP from Meghalaya following the loss of the Tura Parliamentary seat — Kharlukhi remained optimistic.
“There’s no need to be disheartened. Losing one seat doesn’t mean we’re out. We’re hopeful of securing more MPs in the next election,” he added.