The autumn session of the State Assembly ran without Chief Minister Conrad Sangma for the third day today.
Sangma who is undergoing treatment for typhoid and scrub typhus has skipped the session since its commencement on August 23.
All replies to motions and major questions in the House including those under the CM’s departments were given by Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong.
The absence of Sangma from the session has caused a huge handicap since he is known for providing detailed information to members on their questions or motions.
Although Tynsong tried to cater to the issues raised by the members, especially the opposition, he could not match the intellect and speed of grasping the issues like Sangma.
However, as compared to the other Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar in terms of handling replies in the House, Tynsong did a far better job.
The opposition parties, especially VPP, took on the State government on various issues such as mining rules, road projects, unemployment, etc.
Tynsong had to defend the government’s stand on all these issues singlehandedly.
Interesting, this is perhaps the first Assembly session where the chief minister is not present.
Sangma who was released from Shillong Civil Hospital on August 24 is currently under medical observation by doctors. His condition is improving, sources said.
The session will conclude on August 30. Sangma may be able to attend the final day of the session if doctors declare him as physically fit to resume his official duties.
