Three Congress MLAs Join NPP Amid Meghalaya's Strategic Tourism Push

Three Congress MLAs have joined the National People’s Party in Meghalaya, in the presence of Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma. This move strengthens the party’s majority in the Legislative Assembly. Sangma also announced the new role of locals as ‘tourist assistants’ to boost tourism and provide employment.

Three Congress Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) joined the National People's Party (NPP) in the presence of Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Monday. Sangma announced the induction on X, emphasizing that it highlights faith in the NDA government's vision.

'Overjoyed to welcome 3 MLAs from Congress to NPP. Their induction is a testament to faith in our government’s vision. With this merger, we now have 31 members in the 60-seat Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, securing a full majority! Cheers to our supporters & well-wishers!’ Sangma declared. The NDA now commands 46 MLAs, with the NPP having 31 members, BJP with two, United Democratic Party holding 12 seats, and HDPDP with two seats.

Two independent candidates also support the NDA alliance. The opposition's INDIA bloc holds 13 MLAs, comprising TMC with five, Congress with one, and Voice of the People Party holding four.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma announced a phased initiative to appoint locals as 'tourist assistants.' These personnel will serve as tour guides, provide security, and offer information to tourists. 'The goal is to make tourists feel safe and ensure they receive accurate information,' Sangma stated during a consultation with tourism stakeholders at the State Convention Centre in Shillong. This initiative aims to enhance tourism and create job opportunities for local youths.

The Chief Minister also addressed recent law and order issues affecting tourism, stressing the importance of collective efforts. 'We must work together to condemn such incidents and promote a positive environment for tourism,' he urged.