SHILLONG: Chief Minister Conrad Sangma has termed AICC spokesperson Gaurav Gogoi’s criticisms of NPP as outcome of the Congress’s frustration.
“The statement is a mere reflection of the frustration of the Congress party as the MDA government has done what the Congress government could not in the developmental sphere,” Sangma said on Wednesday.
Gogoi had criticised the NPP-led coalition government in the state saying if the party was strong enough it should shun BJP.
He had also said the MDA government was resorting to talks instead of action like Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Maan ki Baat’ which people are tired of listening to.
Reacting to this remark, the chief minister reiterated, “Giving random statements not backed by facts is meaningless and a reflection of their frustration.”
Highlighting the initiatives taken by the government in the past six months, Sangma said this year the sanctions for many departments have been the highest, be it the PMGSY, PMAY or pending bills. “Gogoi should do his home work and check facts,” he added.
Sangma was administered oath as the MLA of South Tura on Wednesday by Speaker Donkupar Roy in the presence of Cabinet ministers and supporters of the chief minister.
To a query, Sangma admitted that running a coalition “is never easy and is always a challenge”.
The state’s ruling coalition comprises NPP, BJP, UDP, PDF, NCP and two independent members. “These coalition partners are focused and they understand the different policies of the government and they are very supportive,” the chief minister said.
When asked why the allies were taking a long time to come up with the common minimum programme, the chief minister said the draft has been circulated among partners and a committee has been constituted. He cited the by-elections, month-long budget session and the recent law and order disturbances in the city as reasons for the delay in finalising the draft.
As the MDA government completed six months in office, Sangma said he would focus on monitoring implementation of various schemes and ensure that his Cabinet colleagues visit the blocks more often to review government programmes.
He did not deny the new government facing challenges in the form of financial problems and pending schemes but assured that “we are in proper momentum to work”.
Sangma said the coming months would be crucial as his government is focusing on priority areas and formulating policies.
