Meghalaya political shift as eight UDP MLAs join BJP

The political landscape in Meghalaya has undergone a significant realignment following the defection of eight United Democratic Party (UDP) MLAs to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This shift has increased the BJP’s presence in the 60-member Assembly from two to 10 seats, while reducing the UDP from 12 to four MLAs.

National People's Party (NPP) Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar denied rumors of an NPP merger with the BJP, stating the party remains united and that recent visits to Delhi by leadership were for official business. Similarly, HSPDP leader Methodius Dkhar affirmed his party’s continued support for the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government led by Chief Minister Conrad Sangma.

Meghalaya Congress President Vincent Pala criticized the move, accusing the BJP of stealing the people's mandate through defections. Pala noted that while the BJP has gained legislative strength, its true test will be the 2028 Assembly elections, where it must secure a direct mandate from voters. The shift is expected to alter the character of regional politics in the state, potentially creating a vacuum for other regional parties to fill.