Shillong, Oct 29: Nongpoh MLA Mayralborn Syiem has said that the decision of eight UDP MLAs to join the BJP was aimed at exploring ways to resolve Meghalaya’s pending demands, which is yet to be responded by the central government.
Speaking to the media, Syiem said the BJP was the only party in a position of power that could help to fulfil the demands of the state.
He said the key demands included the inclusion of the Khasi and Garo languages in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India, issues related to coal mining, the Meghalaya Resident Safety and Security Amendment Bill, 2020, and the relocation of Harijan Colony from Them Iew Mawlong.
He said these issues required cooperation with the Central Government and expressed confidence that the BJP would help explore possible solutions.
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On the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2026, Syiem said organisations and groups receiving funds from abroad must be accountable and comply with the prescribed rules. He also rejected allegations that the legislation was directed against Christians, clarifying that its provisions should apply equally to all religions and organisations.
Responding to criticism over their decision to join the BJP, Syiem said they harboured no resentment towards the UDP or its leaders. He maintained that their decision was driven by the desire to find ways to fulfil the aspirations of the people.
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He also expressed confidence that voters would assess their elected representatives based on their performance and the work they had undertaken for their constituencies in the 2028 Assembly elections.
Syiem added that joining another political party was part of the democratic process, but stressed that honest work and service to the people would remain the highest priorities.
