SHILLONG, July 5: United Democratic Party (UDP) candidate for the upcoming Lok Sabha by-election, Vivanstone G Kharngapkynta, said he was prepared to make any sacrifice, including laying down his life, to protect the interests of Meghalaya and its indigenous people, while asserting that the state’s natural resources must remain under the control of its people.
Speaking at a public introduction programme organised by the UDP at BIDS Hall, Nongthymmai, on Saturday, Kharngapkynta said the by-election presents an opportunity for the people of Meghalaya to elect a representative who would strongly advocate for the rights of the state and raise issues affecting the indigenous communities at the national level.
Senior UDP leaders, including party president Metbah Lyngdoh, general secretary Titosstarwell Chyne, vice president Allantry F. Lyngdoh, Shella MLA Balajied Kupar Synrem, Mawsynram MLA Ollan Singh Suin, party functionaries, and supporters attended the programme.
Kharngapkynta said that different political parties have represented Meghalaya in the Lok Sabha over the years and expressed hope that voters would now entrust the UDP with the responsibility of representing the state in Parliament.
He said Meghalaya faces several challenges that require strong and consistent representation in New Delhi, particularly on matters relating to indigenous rights, land ownership, natural resources, and the constitutional safeguards enjoyed by tribal communities.
The UDP candidate maintained that irrespective of which party is in power at the Centre, there is always a need for elected representatives from the State to remain vigilant and ensure that the interests of Meghalaya are protected.
According to him, issues relating to land and mineral resources have become increasingly important as various policies and decisions taken at the national level could have long-term implications for smaller states such as Meghalaya.Kharngapkynta stressed that the state’s mineral wealth and natural resources belong to its people and should not be exploited or controlled without taking into account the wishes and interests of local communities.
He warned against any attempt by the government of India to interfere in matters concerning Meghalaya’s resources and said the State needs representatives who are willing to take a firm stand whenever its interests are threatened.
“If elected to Parliament, I will raise my voice for the people of Meghalaya and defend their rights. I am prepared to make every sacrifice, even to the extent of laying down my life, if that is what it takes to protect the jaidbynriew and safeguard the interests of the state,” he said.
Kharngapkynta further stated that a Member of Parliament should not merely occupy a seat in Parliament but must actively engage in debates, influence policies and ensure that issues affecting the people of Meghalaya receive adequate attention at the national level.
Earlier, UDP general secretary Titosstarwell Chyne expressed concern over the nature of the current election campaign, saying that political discourse has increasingly become dominated by allegations and counter-allegations among rival parties.
He said that while political differences are natural in a democracy, election campaigns should focus more on issues that directly affect the people rather than on personal attacks.
Chyne stressed the need for meaningful discussions on matters such as governance, development, employment opportunities, protection of natural resources and the future of the youth.
Meanwhile, UDP president Metbah Lyngdoh described the by-election as an important contest that would determine who represents Meghalaya in Parliament during a crucial period. He urged voters to carefully assess the candidates’ credentials and capabilities before casting their votes, adding that effective representation in the Lok Sabha requires more than public popularity or political rhetoric.
According to Lyngdoh, a Member of Parliament must be able to articulate the concerns of the State, participate effectively in legislative debates and work towards securing the interests of the people.
Expressing confidence in Kharngapkynta, the UDP president said the party believes its candidate has the commitment, courage and dedication required to represent Meghalaya in Parliament and uphold the aspirations of its people.
