SHILLONG, June 28: Congress leader Manuel Badwar stated that the upcoming Shillong Lok Sabha by-election should be viewed as a contest of political ideologies rather than individual personalities. He urged voters to evaluate parties based on their governance records, commitment to constitutional values, and policies impacting daily life.
Speaking to The Shillong Times, Badwar noted that parliamentary elections differ fundamentally from Assembly polls as they determine the country’s political direction. While acknowledging that two academicians are in the fray, he maintained that the focus must remain on the ideology and vision of the political parties backing them.
Badwar claimed the Congress has consistently opposed Central policies that adversely affect the public. He argued that development should not be measured solely by economic growth figures, but by improvements in education, healthcare, and overall quality of life.
Questioning the impact of national economic growth, Badwar alleged that benefits have failed to reach the grassroots, leading to widening income inequality. He contended that while the economy shows healthy growth on paper, many families struggle with rising costs and financial insecurity, particularly during health emergencies.
The Congress leader also expressed concern over the perceived weakening of public education and healthcare, criticising an increasing reliance on privatisation. He argued that many families now depend on insurance for medical expenses, highlighting the financial vulnerability of a large section of the population.
Calling for an informed choice, Badwar said campaigns should be judged by whether parties have honoured their promises rather than by the size of public gatherings. He pointed to the demand for including the Khasi language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, questioning the credibility of parties that have made repeated promises on the issue without ensuring tangible progress.
Badwar further argued that Meghalaya, as a small state, requires strong national representation. He stated that aligning with a major national party would strengthen the state’s voice in Parliament, adding that the Congress remains committed to safeguarding democratic institutions and secular values.
