By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, May 18: Senior BJP leader and MLA Alexander Laloo Hek has sparked intense speculation over the political future of Leader of Opposition Mukul M. Sangma, stating that several leaders, including those from the Garo Hills, are in active talks with the BJP regarding a possible switch.
When directly asked whether former Chief Minister Mukul Sangma was willing to join the BJP, Hek refrained from confirming or denying the development. Citing the anti-defection law, he said it would not be proper to name individuals, but made it clear that political leaders from across the state have personally met him to discuss joining the saffron party.
Hek claimed that the BJP’s acceptability is steadily rising in Meghalaya, with people and leaders from different regions reaching out to the party.
Hek’s remarks have immediately drawn attention to Mukul Sangma, who has been a dominant figure in Meghalaya politics for over two decades and currently serves as the Leader of Opposition. Sangma, who switched to the TMC in 2021, has been at the centre of speculation over his political future ever since the TMC suffered a crushing defeat in the recent West Bengal assembly polls.
On the upcoming Shillong Lok Sabha bypoll, Hek said the BJP will hold a crucial meeting on May 20 to finalise the nominee. Names doing the rounds include Mariahom Kharkrang, Wankitbok Pohshna, Ernest Mawrie, and a leader from Jaintia Hills.
