Shillong, May 23: Political circles in Meghalaya are abuzz over who the ruling National People’s Party (NPP) will nominate for the state’s lone Upper House seat.
The Election Commission of India has announced the schedule for the biennial elections to the Rajya Sabha, set to fill 24 vacant seats in June–July 2026 across ten states.
Meghalaya’s lone upper house seat is currently occupied by Dr. Wanweiroy Kharlukhi of the National People’s Party (NPP). He was elected unopposed in June 2020 after the NPP secured a majority with the support of allies in the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA).
As the NPP has 33 MLAs in the 60-member Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, the ability of the opposition—which includes the VPP and TMC—to field a formidable candidate for the Rajya Sabha election appears slim. Given the alliance’s overall strength of 50 MLAs, the prospects for opposition success are dim.
Party sources said the NPP will meet in the coming week to finalise its nominee. Discussions have already begun at informal levels, with regional balance and electability emerging as key factors.
According to senior leaders, former MLA James P K Sangma has emerged as the front-runner for the nomination. Sangma, who previously served as Home Minister and held portfolios including Power and District Council Affairs.
Despite losing the 2023 assembly election, James retains significant influence, partly due to familial ties with Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma.
Sources added that James has strong backing from NPP leaders in Garo Hills, who are pushing for a Garo representative in the Upper House. Party functionaries believed that nominating a leader from the Garo Hills region could address regional aspirations, especially ahead of the 2028 assembly polls.
NPP insiders said the final decision will rest with the party’s central election committee after consultations with district units and MDA partners.
The ECI has set June 1, 2026, as the date for issuing the notification. Nominations close on June 8, with polling, if required, on June 18.
The entire process will be completed by June 20. Only integrated violet sketch pens provided by the Returning Officer will be used for marking preferences.
