By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Oct 29: AICC secretary and Meghalaya in-charge A Chellakumar on Wednesday claimed that several former leaders of the Congress, now with ruling MDA and other political parties, have expressed willingness to return to the grand old party.
Speaking to reporters after welcoming former TMC leader Zenith M. Sangma back to the party, Chellakumar said, “In course of time, one by one will definitely be admitted and you will come to know who is joining the party.”
He, however, did not specify if senior TMC leader Mukul M. Sangma and other party legislators had expressed any interest in returning to the Congress.
Chellakumar emphasised that the Congress has always prioritised the interests of the nation and welcomed those who realised their mistake and wished to return to its ideology.
“We are not here to purchase anyone like what other political parties do. Anyone who accepts the principles and ideology of the Congress is welcome,” he said.
Welcoming Zenith, the Congress leader said it is a matter of great pleasure that an old family member has rejoined the party.
“He had contributed much to the Congress from his young age. He was the State Youth Congress president, MLA, and minister,” Chellakumar said.
He added that Zenith’s decision to return was driven by his realisation that only the Congress can safeguard the secular fabric of the nation and serve the larger interests of Meghalaya.
Chellakumar defended Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) president Vincent H Pala, stating that the departure of some members cannot be attributed to the failure of the PCC chief.
“If somebody is greedy, what can we do? We are not here to fix a price for individuals. Pala is a loyal and dedicated Congressman who has been working hard as the PCC president,” he said.
Reiterating his faith in the party’s ideals, Chellakumar said the Congress remains the only political organisation in the country committed to upholding the Constitution of India.
Meanwhile, party sources confirmed that the return of former leaders to the Congress, happening with the blessings of Rahul Gandhi, is being coordinated directly at the level of the AICC.
According to political insiders, the move involves both former legislators and senior functionaries from across Shillong and the Garo Hills.
“Almost all will return gradually. For sitting MLAs, it will take a little more time as proper alignment and coordination are needed,” one senior leader said, adding that groundwork for the transition has already started.
The TMC’s organisational strength in Meghalaya has reportedly weakened, with sources admitting there is “no active structure on the ground.”
“The leaders will go back to Congress because there’s no base left either in Shillong or the Garo Hills,” one insider noted.
Talks are being held constituency by constituency to ensure smooth coordination and avoid overlapping interests. “Some have already made up their minds while others are working out when and how to move. It’s a gradual process — things are happening daily,” said another source familiar with the discussions.
