Khliehriat, October 26: The Voice of the People’s Party (VPP) has intensified its campaign for the upcoming Shillong Lok Sabha by-election, calling for political change in Meghalaya and urging voters to stand united against the alleged misuse of power.
Addressing a public meeting at Khliehmyntriang village in East Jaintia Hills district on Monday, VPP president and Nongkrem MLA Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit said people could protect their villages and interests if they remained united and exercised their democratic rights responsibly.
The meeting was attended by VPP vice-president Dr. Kara Chen, State Youth Wing secretary Nathaniel Mawrie, State Youth Wing President Marbud Dkhar, East Jaintia Hills District president Damewanhi L. Rymbai, JHADC MDC Deiwi Tongper, party members and villagers.
Basaiawmoit said the VPP was formed in response to what it viewed as the misuse of power by the present government. Despite facing obstacles and alleged restrictions on its agitations, he said, the party had continued to move forward within the framework of the Constitution of India.
He maintained that the party’s growing public support reflected the acceptance of its ideology, pointing out that the VPP had secured more than five lakh votes in the previous Lok Sabha election and won seven constituencies in Jaintia Hills.
“This is not magic, but a sign that the people have accepted our ideology,” he said.
Criticising the functioning of political representatives, Basaiawmoit alleged that some were more concerned about their personal financial interests than public welfare, while extending assistance selectively.
Referring to the Congress-led Meghalaya United Alliance (MUA) government, he alleged that the NPP had sought public support, particularly in Jaintia Hills, by promising opportunities to resume coal mining. However, he claimed that the benefits of coal mining had largely gone to people connected with those in power rather than the general public.
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He further accused the present government of failing local and tribal communities while favouring outsiders, arguing that a change in the state’s political situation had become necessary.
Explaining the circumstances behind the formation of the VPP, Basaiawmoit said its leaders had witnessed the hardships faced by ordinary people and the uncertain future confronting the youth.
Highlighting gaps in healthcare infrastructure, he referred to shortages of medical equipment and dialysis machines at a civil hospital in Shillong, claiming that some patients had to return home because the available facilities could not accommodate everyone in need.
“Disease does not wait for anyone,” he said, underscoring the urgency of addressing deficiencies in public healthcare.
Looking ahead to the 2028 Assembly elections, Basaiawmoit said the VPP would pursue its objectives without hesitation. He emphasised that the party’s mission was to make voters aware of their democratic power and their ability to shape the state’s political future.
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Reflecting on his own political journey, he said he had previously been associated with the United Democratic Party (UDP) and had served as president of the Hill State People’s Democratic Party (HSPDP). He claimed that he left both parties because political leaders often approached voters before elections but neglected them after winning.
Basaiawmoit urged the public to recognise the importance of their votes and hold elected representatives accountable, stressing that in a democracy, the ultimate power rests with the people.
