Meghalaya: UDP MLAs in ‘talks’ with BJP, possible defection on cards

Shillong, Aug 29 (IANS) Meghalaya’s political landscape could be heading for a major realignment, with at least nine of the United Democratic Party’s (UDP) 12 legislators reportedly preparing to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), according to sources.

The reported move follows a fresh round of discussions between UDP legislators and senior BJP leaders, with the next phase of talks expected in New Delhi on Sunday, August 30. Sources said five UDP MLAs have already travelled to the national capital, while the remaining legislators are likely to join them.

A senior UDP leader, speaking on condition of anonymity, said growing differences within the party, particularly over the leadership of UDP president Metbah Lyngdoh, contributed to the developments. Lyngdoh, however, denied having any information about a possible defection. Both the BJP and UDP have maintained silence, leaving the proposed switch unconfirmed.

Political sources claim negotiations may not be limited to the UDP, with some Trinamool Congress (TMC) legislators also reportedly holding discussions with BJP leaders. If defections take place, they could represent one of the most significant political developments in Meghalaya since the formation of the current Assembly.

The BJP currently has only two MLAs in the 60‑member Assembly. The induction of nine UDP legislators would dramatically increase its strength and potentially take the party into double digits. Such a move would give the BJP a larger footprint in the Khasi and Jaintia Hills, where regional parties have traditionally held sway.

The development comes as the BJP’s state leadership has indicated its intention to build an independent base ahead of the 2028 Assembly elections rather than relying on pre‑poll alliances. For the BJP, attracting sitting legislators could provide an immediate organisational advantage, bringing experienced leaders, local networks and established constituencies into its fold.

For the UDP, the reported departure of nine out of 12 MLAs would be a serious setback. The party has long positioned itself as a strong regional force representing Meghalaya’s distinct political and cultural interests. A mass shift to a national party could trigger questions about the UDP’s future and regional identity, while creating space for other regional players such as the Voice of the People Party (VPP) to expand their influence.

The defections could also affect the ruling alliance led by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma’s National People’s Party (NPP), which currently has 33 MLAs. While a stronger BJP could bolster the ruling camp, it could also increase competition between the allies ahead of the 2028 election.

The possibility of TMC legislators moving towards the BJP adds another layer of uncertainty. If defections materialise, Meghalaya could witness a significant restructuring of its political landscape well before the 2028 polls, resulting in a sharper multi‑cornered contest between national and regional parties.

For now, the proposed defections remain unconfirmed, with leaders across the UDP, BJP and TMC refusing to comment publicly. The August 30 discussions could prove crucial in determining whether speculation develops into a formal realignment.

–IANS

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