Shillong, Jul 8: The Voice of the People Party (VPP) has objected to the invitation extended to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma as the chief guest for the Behdeiñkhlam festival.
VPP spokesperson Aw Rani expressed disappointment, stating, “The VPP would have been more grateful to the organizers should they have avoided inviting Mr. Himanta Biswa as the chief guest for the occasion.”
The party stated that Sarma’s leadership has contributed to a growing sense of insecurity among residents in the Meghalaya-Assam border. “It is undeniable that he is instrumental in instilling a sense of insecurity in the minds of the people living in the border areas,” the statement said.
Rani said Behdeiñkhlam is a celebration of culture, identity, and unity and said the party hopes that the occasion remains one that unites the people and reflects the sentiments and aspirations of the citizens of the state.
The festival, which is a significant celebration in the Jaintia culture, marking the driving away of evil spirits and the beginning of a new harvest season, will conclude on Thursday.
