NPP the ‘dark horse’ in Mizoram elections

Having expanded its footprints in various northeastern states, the NPP is now eyeing Mizoram with the party’s top leader and Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma saying he cannot rule out the possibility of the NPP emerging kingmaker after the November 28 Mizoram elections.

Talking exclusively to Northeast Live Editor in Chief Wasbir Hussain in Shillong, Sangma said the NPP hopes to garner maximum seats in Mizoram.

The NPP national president, however, admitted that Mizoram will be a challenge for the party as every constituency in the state is unique in its own way.

Pointing out how the victory margins in at least 14-15 seats in the last elections were very narrow, Sangma said elections are a different ball game in Mizoram where issues vary from constituency to constituency.

He, however, hoped that the people of Mizoram will appreciate and recognise the NPP’s vision for the state and the entire region and the party will emerge a game changer.

The NPP is looking to field at least 25 candidates in the polls for the 40-member Mizoram assembly.

The Meghalaya Chief Minister talking about the controversial Khasi Lineage Bill, said the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council has the right to adopt resolutions and pass bills.

However, there are other stakeholders like the State and the Centre and the Governor too has to take a call on the issue.

Sangma added, the state cabinet will meet to deliberate on the matter besides consultations with leaders of the coalition partners.

Meanwhile, reacting to the passage of the bill on Inner Line Permit by the KHADC recently, Sangma said the issue is not as simple as it looks and that his government is committed to protect the interest of the indigenous people.

Admitting that illegal migration is a serious issue, the Meghalaya chief minister however said that there is no need to be overwhelmed by it and that the need of the hour is to figure out the best mechanism to tackle the issue.