The Shillong Times

UDP’s downfall an existential test for regional parties: Paul

By Our Reporter — Thu, 05 Nov 2026 18:48:38 +0000

SHILLONG, Nov 5: The UDP’s near-complete disintegration has exposed deeper vulnerabilities confronting regional parties across the state, Cabinet Minister and NPP leader Paul Lyngdoh warned on Thursday.
Lyngdoh described the UDP’s downfall as the direct consequence of leadership failure and the absence of any functioning collective structure, warning that the episode exposes the vulnerabilities of regional parties across the state.
Speaking to The Shillong Times, he said the durability of any political organisation rests on the quality of its leadership and the capacity of that leader to build and sustain a united team.
“Everything, any organisation, any team always requires a good captain. A good captain can nurture a good team,” he stated.
He was sharply critical of his former party’s internal evolution, alleging that the party never developed genuine collective leadership and instead narrowed its focus to individual constituencies. “This has not happened in the UDP. It became absolutely constituency-centric, which is why the inevitable happened,” he said.
Lyngdoh’s assessment deliberately moves the discussion beyond the loss of legislative numbers. He presents the UDP’s crisis as a structural failure: the inability to maintain a shared political identity once individual constituency interests began to dominate.
In his view, the party ceased to function as a coherent organisation and therefore could not hold its legislators together when political pressures intensified.
This reading carries wider implications for Meghalaya’s regional politics. The rapid absorption of elected representatives into the state’s two larger formations has left traditional regional parties exposed.
The UDP, once a significant coalition partner with 12 seats after the 2023 hustings, now operates as a solitary voice outside the government.
The episode underscores the difficulty such parties face in preserving organisational cohesion when leadership fails to cultivate collective purpose and when the gravitational pull of national and larger state parties grows stronger.
While the UDP confronts the immediate task of rebuilding from a single legislator, Paul’s critique frames the setback as a cautionary illustration of what occurs when regional outfits lose the internal discipline required to survive in an increasingly consolidated political landscape.
The comments arrive after 11 of the UDP’s 12 MLAs quit the party. Eight moved to the BJP and three, including Lyngdoh himself, joined the NPP. Only party president Metbah Lyngdoh remains in the 60-member House. He resigned from the Cabinet on 31 October, and the UDP subsequently withdrew support from the NPP-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance government, ending an eight-year partnership.
Paul was inducted into the Cabinet in the vacancy that followed and now holds the Tourism, Social Welfare and Arts & Culture portfolios.
The NPP’s strength stands at 36 MLAs and the BJP’s at 10, leaving the government with a comfortable majority.

State govt firm on ropeway project

By Our Reporter — Thu, 05 Nov 2026 18:48:31 +0000

Dorbar leader questions public meeting legitimacy

SHILLONG, Nov 5: The Meghalaya government on Thursday made it clear that it will not reverse the Shillong Peak Ropeway project despite mounting opposition, even as a Riat Laban Dorbar Pyllun leader questioned the legitimacy of the public consultation process and demanded that the proposal be abandoned.
Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh said the project had received all necessary clearances and that the question of going back did not arise. He noted that the initiative was the result of years of discussions aimed at improving access to Shillong Peak, where visitors earlier faced identity checks and frequent gate closures.
The journey from Terminal 1 to the viewpoint is expected to take about three minutes.
Lyngdoh said written permission from the local Dorbar had been secured in 2022, followed by a land lease agreement with the Riat Laban Dorbar Pyllun in 2023. No-objection certificates were obtained from the Airports Authority of India, the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army.
Land for compensatory plantation was also transferred that year, he stated.
Describing the MoU as a 30-year bilateral agreement already signed and sealed, he said objections had surfaced only recently and that opponents had not clearly explained their grounds.
He referred to a 2022 Union Environment Ministry notification recommending aerial ropeways as an environmentally friendly mode of transport and pointed out that the project site is about 3.15 km from Shillong Peak.
The minister warned that halting the project after clearances and agreements could damage Meghalaya’s image among future investors.
He added that the government was open to engaging with critics and taking them to ropeway sites in Sikkim and Shimla.
An application for KHADC permission, submitted in May, remains under process. The seal at the site was broken on Wednesday as the land belongs to the state government, Lyngdoh stressed.
Meanwhile, Riat Laban Dorbar Pyllun leader Jied Nongkynrih questioned how a public meeting attended by only 22 people could be treated as adequate consultation for a project with wide implications for local residents. He compared the turnout with Dorbar Shnong meetings, which are usually postponed when only 10–12 members are present for want of quorum.
Nongkynrih said the limited participation raised serious doubts about how public opinion was being assessed and urged the government to scrap the project rather than continue with further discussions.
The contrasting positions underscore the continuing divide over the ropeway, with the government stressing completed clearances and long-term investment concerns, and local leaders highlighting inadequate community consultation.

Meghalaya Nuggets

By Our Reporter — Thu, 05 Nov 2026 18:47:49 +0000

Meghalaya PAC attends natl meet in Kerala; resolution adopted on audit accountability
SHILLONG, Nov 5: A delegation of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) participated in the two-day National Conference of PAC Chairpersons held on November 3 and 4 at the Kerala Legislative Assembly in Thiruvananthapuram. The state was represented by PAC Chairperson Miani D. Shira, and members Dr. Celestine Lyngdoh and Rupa M. Marak. During the conference, chairpersons and members from Parliament and various state and union territory legislatures adopted a resolution to strengthen audit accountability and good governance. The resolution followed deliberations in the plenary session regarding the evolving role of Public Accounts Committees in ensuring financial oversight and transparency.

AICC observer in Jowai clamours for CEC’s removal
JOWAI, Nov 5: The Congress on Wednesday demanded the removal of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, accusing him of orchestrating the mass deletion of non-BJP voters from electoral rolls during the recent Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise. Addressing a press conference at the party office in New Hill, Jowai, All India Congress Committee (AICC) observer for the ‘Vote Bachao-Desh Bachao’ campaign, Kumari Tilotama, alleged that the CEC was operating under the influence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. She claimed Kumar had bypassed the other two Election Commissioners to arbitrarily strike voters’ names from the rolls. Flanked by West Jaintia Hills District Congress Committee general secretary EG War, Nartiang Block Congress Committee president Emlang Laloo, and other local leaders, Tilotama said citizens across the country are growing increasingly alarmed by the BJP-led NDA government’s policies, particularly the SIR exercise. Pointing out that Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi launched a nationwide campaign for voters’ rights in 2025 following reports of large-scale electoral roll deletions, the AICC observer urged the public to remain vigilant. She warned that the country’s democratic future is at risk unless citizens speak out against the alleged disenfranchisement of voters.

Rs 60-cr Eklavya school at Sohryngkham by March 2027
SHILLONG, Nov 5: Construction of the Rs 60-crore Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) at Sohryngkham is expected to be completed by March 2027, the project contractor assured Mawryngkneng MLA Heavingstone Kharpran during a site inspection on Wednesday. Reviewing the pending works with engineers and the contractor, Kharpran expressed satisfaction with the pace of construction and directed them to maintain strict quality standards. Initiated in 2023, the project is a major investment in local educational infrastructure aimed at providing quality residential schooling to Scheduled Tribe students, the MLA said. He also thanked the Dorbar Shnong of Sohryngkham for donating 15 acres of land to make the project possible. Kharpran added that he has urged the state government to build a proper approach road to the campus, noting that road connectivity is crucial both for ongoing construction work and the future commute of students, teachers, and staff. Mawryngkneng BDO Sanjay D Shira, the site engineer, and local traditional leaders accompanied the MLA during the visit. The secretary of the Sohryngkham Dorbar Shnong thanked Kharpran for consistently following up on the project and expressed the village’s satisfaction with the progress of the work.

41 candidates clear govt exams under Project ASPIRE
NONGPOH, Nov 5: Forty-one candidates from Ri-Bhoi and West Garo Hills districts have cleared competitive government examinations within seven months of the launch of Project ASPIRE, an education initiative designed to support students from rural and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Of the successful candidates, 16 cleared the Staff Selection Commission (SSC) General Duty Constable Examination, while 25 qualified in the Meghalaya Teacher Eligibility Test (MTET). To mark the milestone, Ri-Bhoi Deputy Commissioner Dr Abhishek Saini felicitated eight successful candidates from the district with certificates and trophies at his office in Nongpoh on Wednesday. Speaking to the media, Dr Saini said Project ASPIRE reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring rural students receive the same learning opportunities and examination coaching as their urban counterparts. The initiative has made academic support accessible to students in remote areas who otherwise lack such facilities, he added. Inaugurated by Chief Minister Conrad KSangma in Ri-Bhoi on March 30, 2026, Project ASPIRE is funded by NITI Aayog under the Aspirational District programme. Following its initial rollout in Ri-Bhoi, the initiative was also adopted by the West Garo Hills district administration. The free programme is implemented in collaboration with the ed-tech platform Filo, which provides students with round-the-clock mobile access to live tutors across various subjects. Alongside academic support for students in Classes IX to XII, the platform offers specialised coaching for Class XII graduates preparing for state and central government recruitment exams. Dr Saini expressed satisfaction with the partnership, noting that around 5,000 of the 7,000 students registered on the Filo platform are actively using the service. The early results from the two districts highlight the programme’s potential to bridge educational disparities and improve government job prospects for the state’s rural youth.

Construction of Rs 438 cr Monolith Towers begins in NST
SHILLONG, Nov 5: Construction of the 123-metre Monolith Towers at Mawkhanu in New Shillong Township (NST) has commenced, with the project scheduled for completion within two years. Executed on an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) basis, the ambitious project is estimated to cost Rs 438.23 crore. Inspired by the traditional stone monoliths of the Khasi and Jaintia communities, the structure is envisioned as a landmark reflecting Meghalaya’s tribal heritage and cultural identity. Spread across 213.8 acres, the complex will feature five thematic galleries dedicated to the state’s natural wonders, tribal history, living root bridges, caves and biodiversity. The project also includes a 72-metre sky bridge and observation facilities for visitors. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, after inspecting the ongoing work, informed that the towers would stand as a symbol of Meghalaya’s rich culture and the unique legacy of its indigenous communities. He also expressed optimism regarding the project’s progress and its timely completion.

Career mentoring prog for JH college students
KHLIEHRIAT, Nov 5: The Career Guidance and Placement Cell of Jaintia Eastern College, Khliehriat, organised a career mentoring programme on Thursday to guide students in making informed decisions about their professional futures. The session was led by Ranjan K Baruah, Founder of the North East Youth Foundation, Guwahati. Through an interactive session, Baruah provided insights into career planning, identifying personal strengths, and exploring various professional opportunities. Stressing the importance of self-awareness, he advised students to pursue paths that align with their unique talents and aspirations rather than simply following the choices of others. He also encouraged them to remain open to learning and explore emerging fields in the modern job market. The programme provided a platform for students to clarify career-related concerns and gain a broader perspective on available opportunities. Earlier, B Papang, member secretary of the Career Guidance and Placement Cell, introduced the objectives of the session.

DREAM organises outreach prog for ITI graduates
SHILLONG, Nov 5: The Drug Reduction, Elimination & Action Mission (DREAM) on Thursday organised an outreach programme for graduates of the Industrial Training Institute (ITI), Shillong, to explore employment opportunities and strengthen the transition from vocational training to the workforce. The event, held at the DREAM Conference Hall in Lower Lachaumiere, brought together around 100 participants from various trades. The initiative is part of the DREAM-YOUNG project, which seeks to prevent substance use among youths by promoting skills development and economic empowerment. During the session, graduates discussed applying their technical skills through vocational training roles and the proposed DREAM-YOUNG Skills Centre. The mission aims to enable trained youth to pursue entrepreneurship while contributing to the skill development of others in their communities. Discussions also highlighted the need for better coordination between technical institutions and government agencies to ensure vocational education translates into stable employment.

POWERGRID hands over Rs 1.76 crore hospital annex
SHILLONG, Nov 5: Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID) has constructed and handed over a three-storey hospital annex building at Dr Ravi Boro Civil Hospital in Mushalpur, Baksa district, Assam. Built at a cost of Rs 1.76 crore under the corporation’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, the facility was formally inaugurated by POWERGRID Executive Director (NERTS) Dharambir Kumar. BTC Executive Member for Health Derhasat Basumatary and Baksa Deputy Commissioner Kimnei Changsan were also present at the ceremony. The new annex includes five patient cabins, two semi-cabins, dedicated spaces for doctors and nurses, and separate wards. The facility is intended to strengthen the hospital’s infrastructure and improve healthcare services for residents of Baksa and neighbouring areas. POWERGRID, a Maharatna public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Power, undertook the project as part of its commitment to supporting community infrastructure and socio-economic development in the Northeastern region.

Political realignments: NPP ‘desperate’, says Cong

By Our Reporter — Thu, 05 Nov 2026 18:47:36 +0000

SHILLONG, Nov 5: The Congress on Thursday termed the ruling National People’s Party (NPP) desperate, questioning its alleged continued attempts to poach elected members from other political parties, including its allies in the ruling coalition, amid growing political realignments ahead of the 2028 Assembly elections.
Congress’s Tura MP, Saleng A. Sangma, said the NPP’s efforts to bring leaders from other political parties into its fold raised questions about the state of affairs within the ruling party, particularly its ability to manage its own legislators and allies.
Asked whether the developments pointed to cracks within the NPP and whether some of its MLAs might eventually switch over to the Congress ahead of the Assembly polls, Sangma said he could not speak on behalf of individual legislators, as such decisions rested on their personal choices.
However, he questioned why the NPP was continuing to pursue legislators and elected representatives from other parties who were already part of the ruling coalition. He said the pattern of political movements suggested that the ruling party was keen on expanding its numbers by drawing leaders from other parties.
“The way the NPP is trying to deal with its own people raises questions. They are desperate. Why are they poaching every MLA or MDC? They are poaching even MLAs from within the same government. You can understand from the nature of the movement itself,” Sangma said.
The MP expressed disappointment over the treatment of leaders who had joined the NPP earlier but were not given Cabinet berths, particularly in light of the recent induction of United Democratic Party leader Paul Lyngdoh who was appointed a minister.
Sangma said he felt sorry for those who had joined the NPP from the Congress earlier but were not given Cabinet positions.
His remarks bring into focus the questions surrounding political accommodation within the NPP, particularly the expectations of legislators who switched allegiance to the ruling party and the manner in which the party distributed positions of power among incoming leaders.
The developments have also revived speculation over whether the changing political equations within the ruling establishment could lead to further realignments before the next Assembly elections.
While Sangma refrained from making any prediction about MLAs moving to the Congress, he maintained that the NPP’s continued efforts to attract MLAs and MDCs, even from within the ruling dispensation, raised questions about its political strategy and internal management.

City’s VIP culture far from over in Shillong

By Our Reporter — Thu, 05 Nov 2026 18:46:21 +0000

SHILLONG, Nov 5: Despite assurances that VIP culture on Shillong’s roads would be brought to an end, Thursday’s incident along the Barik-Dhankheti stretch suggests that little has changed on the ground, with ordinary commuters continuing to bear the brunt of preferential road movement.
The incident occurred when traffic was already heavily congested along the stretch, with vehicles moving at a snail’s pace. In the middle of the congestion, a VIP vehicle bearing registration number ML 01 A 0111, accompanied by an escort vehicle with its siren blaring, made its way through the road.
The situation became particularly concerning when an ambulance approached from the opposite direction, adding to the confusion on an already congested stretch. With vehicles struggling to make way, the movement of the VIP convoy raised questions about the priorities being followed on the city’s roads.
The incident has once again brought the issue of VIP culture into focus, particularly when authorities had earlier indicated that such preferential treatment would be discontinued.
For ordinary commuters who spend considerable time stuck in traffic every day, the question remains: have the assurances to end VIP culture in Shillong actually made any difference?
At a time when the city is struggling with mounting traffic congestion, the continued use of escort vehicles and sirens for VIP movement raises concerns over accountability, road discipline and equal treatment of commuters.
More importantly, emergency vehicles such as ambulances must be able to move without unnecessary obstruction. Public roads are meant for everyone, and no VIP movement should come at the expense of public convenience or emergency access.

Cherry Blossom Fest to draw visitors from across India, abroad

By Our Reporter — Thu, 05 Nov 2026 18:45:39 +0000

SHILLONG, Nov 5: Meghalaya is expecting a strong turnout for this year’s Cherry Blossom Festival, with the Tourism Department already receiving inquiries from across the country, including southern India, as well as from international tourists.
Speaking to The Shillong Times on Thursday, Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh said growing visitor interest and an early, widespread bloom across Shillong point to an exciting edition of the annual event.
“You must have noticed that the cherry blossoms have actually bloomed now and far more than what was last year,” Lyngdoh said, adding that some foreign tourists are also expected to attend.
The extensive early flowering is expected to boost the appeal of the festival, one of Meghalaya’s flagship tourism events. The annual influx of domestic and international visitors generates significant demand for local hotels, transport, restaurants, and other allied businesses.
However, Lyngdoh did not divulge the festival’s schedule or specific attractions, noting that the details would be announced later. “I will share the details later because right now my entire focus is on getting the ropeway project off the ground,” the Minister said.

Shillong EPFO celebrates 74th Foundation Day

By Our Reporter — Thu, 05 Nov 2026 18:44:39 +0000

SHILLONG, Nov 5: The Shillong Regional Office of the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) settled around 40,000 claims and disbursed approximately Rs 150.55 crore (Rs 150,55,38,785) during the 2025–26 financial year, officials announced during the organisation’s 74th Foundation Day celebrations here.
Additionally, more than 4,948 pensioners benefited from the regional office’s pension services during the same period.
Regional Provident Fund Commissioner-II Ashok Kumar Muduli inaugurated the Foundation Day programme by lighting the ceremonial lamp. Addressing the gathering, Muduli highlighted the role of the EPFO in ensuring social security and financial protection for employees and pensioners.
Officers and staff of the regional office participated in the event, presenting musical performances, speeches, and poetry recitations. The programme concluded with the officials and staff pledging to provide efficient, transparent, and timely services to EPFO members and pensioners.

State gets Rs 688 cr advance tax devolution for festive season

By Our Reporter — Thu, 05 Nov 2026 18:43:28 +0000

SHILLONG, Nov 5: The central government has released Rs 688 crore to Meghalaya as part of the regular instalment of tax devolution, advancing the payment by five days in view of the upcoming festive season.
The amount was released on November 5 instead of the scheduled November 10 date.
This is part of a nationwide advance release of Rs 1,09,019 crore intended to help state governments accelerate capital expenditure and meet development and welfare-related requirements during the festivities.
The funds are expected to provide the state government with additional resources to support ongoing development activities.
Among other northeastern states, Assam received Rs 3,552 crore, Arunachal Pradesh Rs 1,476 crore, Tripura Rs 699 crore, Manipur Rs 682 crore, Mizoram Rs 615 crore, Nagaland Rs 524 crore and Sikkim Rs 365 crore.

CM rolls out Rs 133-cr projects in Jaintia Hills

Bureau — Thu, 05 Nov 2026 18:41:43 +0000

Seven completed projects worth Rs 65.75 crore inaugurated; 19 others taken up

JOWAI/KHLIEHRIAT, Nov 5: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Thursday inaugurated seven completed projects and laid foundation stones for 19 others worth Rs 133.14 crore in West Jaintia Hills district, giving a major push to infrastructure development in the region.
Among the key projects is the Rs 53-crore Ummulong Integrated Hospital, for which the Chief Minister laid the foundation stone during his visit. The proposed 100-bed facility will include 25 beds dedicated to the treatment and rehabilitation of people with substance-use disorders, strengthening healthcare services for Ummulong and neighbouring villages. The land for the hospital was donated by the village.
The other projects taken up include an Aquatic Complex in Jowai, an artificial football ground at Mukhla Sohshrieh, renovation works at Thomas Jones Synod College, road improvement works and upgrades to healthcare facilities.
The seven completed projects inaugurated during the programme, held at the Thadlaskeiñ C&RD Block office, were valued at Rs 65.75 crore. These included the new block office and various road and infrastructure works.
According to the Chief Minister, the Rs 133.14-crore investment in the 19 projects covers the health sector (Rs 54.65 crore), sports (Rs 51.61 crore), PWD (Rs 14.14 crore), PHE (Rs 8.86 crore) and education (Rs 3.88 crore). Over the past eight years, the government has initiated 185 major development projects worth Rs 1,926.52 crore in West Jaiñtia Hills. Of these, 37 have been completed, 81 are underway and 67 are yet to begin.
During the visit, Sangma also inspected the nearly completed Iawmusiang Shopping Complex in Jowai and the Thadlaskeiñ Hospitality Complex near Thadlaskeiñ Lake. He also inaugurated the Shooting Range at Khliehtyrshi.
The Rs 36-crore Hospitality Complex will feature a hotel, conference facilities, restaurants, a children’s park and other amenities aimed at strengthening tourism and accommodation facilities in the district. The government has invested Rs 112.45 crore in tourism-related projects across West Jaiñtia Hills, of which three projects worth Rs 14.91 crore have been completed, while six projects worth Rs 97.54 crore are underway.
On the Iawmusiang Shopping Complex, the Chief Minister said the government would examine the issue of inadequate shops in consultation with the Jaiñtia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC) and the local MLA. The redeveloped market, one of Jowai’s oldest commercial centres, is expected to open for public use in the coming months.
Sangma also announced that the Laskeiñ C&RD Block would soon be upgraded to a Civil Sub-Division, following an assessment of the demand and a joint inspection of other blocks across the state.
As part of the programme, two buses were handed over to Kiang Nangbah Government College and Kiang Nangbah Government School in Jowai. Four district-level sportspersons were felicitated, while equipment was distributed to 181 trainees under the District Skill Development Office. Essential items were also provided to mothers who had recently delivered babies.
The Chief Minister said the government was working to address infrastructure gaps in the healthcare sector and increase the availability of doctors through the establishment of more medical colleges. He expressed confidence that Meghalaya would be able to produce up to 350 doctors annually over the next seven to eight years.
He also urged doctors and healthcare workers to treat patients with humility, compassion and kindness.
The Thadlaskeiñ C&RD Block office, inaugurated during the programme, was constructed at a cost of Rs 3 crore. The state government has allocated Rs 200 crore for upgrading block offices across Meghalaya to improve public service delivery.

BJP treasurer distances himself from trademark dispute row

By Our Reporter — Thu, 05 Nov 2026 18:40:35 +0000

SHILLONG, Nov 5: BJP treasurer Sarwan Jhunjhunwala has clarified that reports linking him to the alleged LIVSAV trademark dispute are contrary to facts and records, maintaining that the matter is a commercial dispute between two companies and is pending before the Maharashtra High Court.
In a written clarification, Jhunjhunwala referred to reports published in The Shillong Times on October 26, November 3 and November 5.
The reports followed statements and allegations made by Pawan Bukalsaria, Managing Director of Hindustan LIVSAV Products, who had approached the media to present his version of the dispute. Jhunjhunwala, however, did not respond when approached for comment during the preparation of the reports.
Jhunjhunwala clarified that although he was formerly a director of Reliabo Pharma India Pvt Ltd, he had resigned from the position in March 2024. He further claimed that the company holds an exclusive trademark registration for “Reliabo LIVSAV,” issued by the Government of India on May 3, 2019, under registration number 4166239.
On this basis, he maintained that the question of trademark infringement did not arise and asserted that Reliabo Pharma India Pvt Ltd was conducting its business lawfully.
He also objected to references to his position as BJP treasurer, alleging that Bukalsaria was invoking his political position to defame him and the BJP in Meghalaya.
Jhunjhunwala said Bukalsaria had filed a case against Reliabo Pharma India Pvt Ltd before the Maharashtra High Court, describing the dispute as purely commercial in nature. He questioned the continued circulation of allegations through the media and social media despite the matter being before the court.