Meghalaya Cong MLA Saleng Sangma says money plays pivotal role in elections, he is scared of polls

Amidst speculations that Congress legislator from Garo Hills, Saleng A Sangma might be in the fray for the Lok Sabha polls early next year, Sangma today made a significant statement when he said that money plays a big role in elections and ‘those with greater financial resources have a more substantial influence on voters’.

He said that there are people who wish to join politics to work for the betterment of the masses, contribute to the society but they are scared by the perception that people with fat money bags would win by influencing the voters.

Speaking to Northeast Live, Saleng A Sangma said, “Election is a very challenging matter. Even though it’s a democratic process people don’t need to spend a single penny to cast their vote. The prevailing perception is that those with greater financial resources have a more substantial influence on voters. This is the main aspect. However, there are numerous individuals who desire to contribute to society but are apprehensive to do so. It’s not the elections that scare them, but the people themselves. These individuals aspire to lead, particularly those with good intentions, but the prospect of participating in elections is genuinely intimidating.”

“Recently, we had the assembly elections, and despite the public granting a mandate to the current government, there is still criticism. The question arises, why hasn’t there been a change? These are the most important topics. People experience fear when the subject of elections arises, and I, too, fear about elections,” added Saleng A Sangma.

On the matter of his own candidacy, Sangma stated, “I refrain from affirming whether I will contest or not. It will depend on the people’s choice. Many individuals come and go. Elections are the essence of democracy, where the electorate has the right to select the most fitting candidate.”

He emphasized the role of financial resources in elections, highlighting, “Money is not the issue, but it significantly influences people’s perspectives. On the contrary, casting a vote doesn’t require even a single penny. At present, people are preoccupied with the cost of living, escalating prices of essentials like rice, electricity bills, and gas. People tend to overlook the fact that elections have the power to effect change in these areas. Elections can transform everything, but individuals tend to lose sight of these concerns during the election season. Money plays a pivotal role in elections.”

In reference to the Congress split, he mentioned, “Dr Mukul Sangma was the primary reason for the division within the Congress because he was initially a member of the Congress but subsequently parted ways. When it comes to elections, everything hinges on the people. People must make the right choices for hope to be realized.”

Copy edited by Bhargobi Khaund

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