UDP To Press Suspension Button Against Defecting MLAs

Shillong, Sep 17: The United Democratic Party (UDP) may suspend the membership of eight party MLAs who are planning to join the BJP.

The party’s disciplinary committee and parliamentary board will meet soon to decide on the steps to be taken if the eight MLAs went ahead with their defection moves.

The UDP’s disciplinary action is likely since at least three of its MLAs have publicly stated that they are willing to join the saffron party “if their conditions are met”. The MLAs include Olan Singh Suiñ (Mawsynram), Kyrmen Shylla (Khliehriat) and Mathew Beyondstar Kurbah (Mawphlang).

Speaking to media persons in Shillong today, UDP general secretary Titos Chyne said the party is closely watching every move before taking any action against defectors.

“The party’s disciplinary committee and parliamentary board will sit and take a call on this,” Chyne said.

He also said that the party would decide whether to suspend the membership of any MLA who violates party’s discipline. He however said that showcause notice may be issued to such MLA.

“Maybe showcause notice or something like that. But I can’t say anything now since the parliamentary board is yet to sit and decide,” Chyne added.

Also read: Over 30 Join BJP in Nongpoh Amid Buzz Over UDP MLAs’ Possible Switch

Stating that all party MLAs “are still with the party and have not left”, Chyne said that the rift within the UDP was not related to leadership.

“There are so many things which I cannot reveal now. However, it has got nothing to do with party leadership,” he said.

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When asked if the defection move was for political gain, Chyne said, “It is their individual choice.”

“As of now, the party is intact. If any party MLA joins the BJP, it does not mean the UDP is joining the BJP,” he quipped.