The late Purno A Sangma knew that he was not going to win the presidential election in 2012 but contested anyway to demonstrate that the tribal people of India could also occupy the highest constitutional post in the land, his son and Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said today.
Fast forward 10 years and Purno’s dream will, in all likelihood, become reality as Draupadi Murmu is set to become the first tribal – and only second woman – to ever be elected as President of India. The election will be held on July 18.
Conrad’s National People’s Party (NPP) is backing Murmu’s election. Murmu belongs to the Bharatiya Janata Party, which the NPP is in alliance with at the state and national levels.
Speaking at the 8th Biennial Conference of the All Rabha Students Union of Meghalaya cum 4th Baiko Dera Festival at Manikganj in North Garo Hills, the CM said, “The dream of the late PA Sangma will become reality and it is proud moment for the tribal people. In 2012, the late Sangma was the NDA (National Democratic Alliance, which the BJP heads) candidate and numbers were not in his favour but today NDA is in majority and the dream of a tribal President of India will fructify.”
He said that late Sangma wanted to demonstrate by contesting the presidential election that the highest constitutional post in the country was not reserved and even the indigenous tribal people could also occupy the chair of President.
Thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi for choosing a tribal candidate, Conrad said, “It is a recognition for the indigenous tribal people of this country.”
Meanwhile, he lauded the efforts of the Rabha community of Meghalaya for working together to promote and revive their ancient culture and practices.
Deputy Speaker of Meghalaya Assembly Timothy D Shira, MLA Marton Sangma and Rupert Momin attended the programme and spoke on the importance of unity and brotherhood amongst different tribes of the state.
Several cultural programmes are being held during the three-day festival that promote the heritage of the Rabhas. The event will conclude on Monday evening.
