The National People’s Party (NPP) today said it is not connected to the Rs 1 crore cash seized by the election squad from a vehicle following the convoy of its national president Conrad Sangma in Arunachal Pradesh.
In a statement, the NPP Spokesperson Himalaya M Shangpliang said they were entirely unaware of the incident until it was brought to light by the media. “Our party was blindsided by the news, and any attempt to link this incident with our National President is baseless and without merit,” he said.
Shangpliang said the vehicle in question was not part of their convoy, a fact they claim was “officially certified by the Longding area Superintendent of Police.” He also said that the convoy, including the vehicles carrying Sangma, underwent standard security checks as per the protocols established during the election code of conduct, revealing no irregularities.
The cash seizure from a vehicle reportedly following the convoy of the Meghalaya Chief Minister has stirred a controversy.
The seizure was made at Kanubari checkpost in Longding from the fortuner car (AS-01-ET-5252), that belonged to Harshvardhan Singh, the executive director of Badri Rai company, engaged in various projects across the state.
While initial speculation suggested the funds were intended for the construction workers, the Income Tax Department is initiating an investigation.
Stricter guidelines from the Election Commission prohibit cash transportation exceeding Rs 50,000 during the model code of conduct.
It’s noteworthy that the NPP has opted not to contest the Lok Sabha elections in Arunachal Pradesh, reiterating its support for the NDA candidates.
