Shillong, Nov 12: The Meghalaya unit of the Congress Party is preparing for what it describes as a new wave of political realignments, with several leaders, reportedly including members of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), likely to join the party in the coming days.
Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) working president Deborah C Marak today hinted that the party is quietly coordinating with several individuals from across the political spectrum who are keen to return or align with the Congress ahead of key elections, such as next year’s Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) polls.
“Many are joining one by one. We are getting ready,” Marak told reporters, adding that certain political developments must be kept confidential for now.
When asked specifically about TMC members from the GHADC, Marak said, “You know they are on the way. Maybe they will be reaching very soon.”
However, she remained noncommittal when questioned about any possible defections from the ruling National People’s Party (NPP), saying the party had “no confirmation yet.”
Echoing Marak’s optimism, Manuel Badwar, MPCC secretary, said the Congress is witnessing a positive shift in public sentiment ahead of the GHADC elections.
“The mood of the people is changing in our favour. Despite criticism and negative talk, the public is responding differently. It’s a sign that the Congress is on its path to revival,” Badwar said.
He emphasised that while many leaders have expressed a desire to join, the party will carefully evaluate each case. “Not everyone who wants to join will be accepted. We have to assess whether they are genuinely committed or merely acting out of political convenience,” he said.
Referring to Zenith M Sangma’s recent return to the party, Badwar said it reflected genuine loyalty and emotional attachment.
“Zenith joined on his own terms because he still believes in the party. Such personalities should be welcomed,” he added.
Zenith is a former cabinet minister who lost the 2018 election on a TMC ticket. Several members of his political family are still with the TMC, including his wife Sadhiarani M Sangma (the Dengnakpara MDC), former Chief Minister and current Songsak MLA Dr Mukul Sangma and the latter’s daughter, Ampati MLA Miani D Shira.
Marak reaffirmed that the Congress remains open to leaders from other parties who share its vision of rebuilding the organisation, particularly in Garo Hills.
“We have never said no to anyone. Those who are coming are joining without any condition, and their intention is to strengthen the Congress once again,” she said.
When asked about the possible return of Mukul Sangma, who defected to the TMC in 2021, Deborah Marak declined to comment, saying, “Let us not go there.”
