Political circles had been abuzz with news of the entry of Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC), the organization led by political analysts, into the state of Meghalaya.
While initially it was only speculation, now we have confirmed reports of the organization’s entry into the state, though it would be too early to speculate as to what it means for the future of Meghalaya politics.
For the uninitiated, I-PAC, as is stated on its website, is a platform for students and young professionals to participate in and make meaningful contributions to political affairs and governance of the country, without necessarily being part of a political party. The organization is led by political strategist and mentor, Prashant Kishor, whose work in the political field does not need much introduction.
However, the other work of the organization is what will get many interested. Its ability to transform socio-political thought into much needed result-oriented action. The organization’s credentials have been proved by its assistance to various political parties to not only make a mark but also win elections – with West Bengal being the latest of its successes.
Interestingly, I-PAC hardly makes endeavours into states where no stakeholder is involved. With rumours of Dr Mukul Sangma approaching the TMC, it would not be too hard to guess as to where the rabbit hole goes.
To end speculation, a senior member of the organization, who was a recent visit to the state was spoken to, who on the condition of anonymity confirmed the rumours of I-PAC’s entry into the state.
“We spent about a week in Meghalaya to do an in-depth study of socio-economic aspects of the state. The time was right for us to do so, especially with the by-polls taking place. It helped to gauge the situation,” said the senior member.
According to him, the presence of the organization will be a permanent one – with office space being sought in Shillong, which will act as the headquarters for the state.
“We have already begun recruiting and seeking the best talents in the state of Meghalaya. We are here in the state for two reasons. While one would be to train youths on politics, the other is to understand the nuances of politics in the state. We are open to working with everyone being a consultancy,” said the company source.
He further confirmed that they were here at least until the year 2024.
Speaking on their interactions in the state of Meghalaya, the source said that they have spoken to various stakeholders, including civil society organizations, NGOs, political party leaders, journalists as well as residents to understand the situation on the ground better.
“The by-polls were the right time for us to understand the socio-political scenario in the state. We will work with anyone that is interested in working with us,” he said.
With I-PAC entering the political landscape within the state, can the TMC be far behind? That question, as per sources, may be answered sooner rather than later.
I-PAC has been responsible for some of the political shifts in recent times. It began with their work on the Narendra Modi-led BJP government in 2014 and has continued through the Bihar elections in 2015, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh in 2017 (for the Congress), Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra in 2019, Delhi in 2020 with Tamil Nadu and West Bengal in 2021.
“Political consultancy is our forte. We currently have our offices in WB, Goa, Tripura and now will set up in Meghalaya,” said the source without disclosing whether they were on a mission for any political party.
The impact of I-PAC and its work can be easily understood from the statement of the former CM of Goa, Luizinho Faleiro, who recently joined the Trinamool Congress in Goa.
“I was impressed with the work done by I-PAC and Prashant Kishor and hence decided to join the TMC, even without meeting most of their leaders. It was their conviction that made me make the move,” said the former CM, who was earlier a part of the Congress in Goa.
