Dhar hits back at Basiawmoit over Nartiang contest remark

By Our Reporter

SHILLONG, May 21: Con- tinuing his war of words against Voice of the People Party (VPP) supremo Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit, Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar on Thursday reminded the former that unlike Non- gkrem, where voters change their MLA every five years, the people of Nartiang have reposed faith in him by elect- ing him four times.

“The people of Nartiang have principle as they have elected me as their MLA for four times whereas voters in Nongkrem change their MLA every five years,” Dhar said.

Basaiawmoit had earlier stated that he might contest from Nartiang in 2028 if formally invited by the sitting MLA and Deputy Chief Min- ister, describing the potential contest as a battle between “the rich and the poor”.

Dhar dismissed the idea of any invitation, saying, “Why should we invite anyone to come to Nartiang and contest the election in 2028? Every body is free to contest. I am not the owner of Nartiang but only an MLA.”

Dhar also downplayed the attendance at a recent VPP public meeting held at Iewpynsing, Wahiajer — one of the biggest markets in the area — claiming only 200- 250 people turned up.

Meanwhile, Dhar asserted that the NPP is working hard to ensure victory for its candidate D.R.L. Nonglait in the upcoming Shillong Parliamentary By-election. He said party workers are actively campaigning in all 36 constituencies.

Dismissing any talk of anti-incumbency, Dhar de- scribed Nonglait as “a new face in Meghalaya politics” and welcomed the participa- tion of more candidates in the by-election, calling it a “good sign” for democracy.