In a big jolt to the Congress, 12 of its 17 MLAs have joined the Trinamool Congress (TMC), sources said today.
The leaders who switched parties included former chief minister Mukul Sangma.
Sangma, the Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly, was reportedly unhappy with the Congress’s top leadership.
Sources informed that eight Congress MLAs are from Garo Hill region and four from Khasi-Jaintia Hills which includes Charles Pyngrope, George B. Lyngdoh, Himalaya M. Shangpliang, Shitlang Pale, Zenith Sangma, Dikkanchi Shira, Miani Shira, Winnerson D. Sangma, Marthon D. Sangma, Jimmy D. Sangma, Lazarus Sangma.
It is also learnt that Sangma will adress the media tomorrow.
The Congress which had 17 legislators now has five MLAs in the Assembly.
Meanwhile, Congress Working President, Ampareen Lyngdoh said that she was not aware of the development.