United Democratic Party weighs discipline for MLAs eyeing BJP move

The United Democratic Party (UDP) is considering disciplinary action against several of its MLAs following reports that approximately eight of its 12 legislators are in talks to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). UDP General Secretary Titosstarwell Chyne stated that the party’s disciplinary committee or state parliamentary board will decide on measures such as show-cause notices or suspensions.

Several MLAs have publicly addressed the potential move. Kyrmen Shylla, the Khliehriat MLA, indicated that the BJP has offered assurances regarding four key regional demands: the resumption of coal mining in Meghalaya, the inclusion of the Khasi language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, the implementation of the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (MRSSA), and issues concerning the Harijan Colony. Matthew Beyondstar Kurbah, the Mawphlang MLA, also cited the need for constituency development as a primary driver for joining the BJP.

UDP President Metbah Lyngdoh has attempted to address internal doubts, describing the reports as a mix of truth and speculation, while maintaining that the party remains intact. Chyne clarified that while individual MLAs may choose to switch parties, the UDP as an organization has not joined the BJP.