Leaders from four political parties in India's Northeast announced plans to merge into a single pan-regional political entity on Tuesday in Delhi. Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma of the National People's Party and Tipra Motha chief Pradyot Manikya Debbarma spearheaded the initiative. They were joined by Mmhonlumo Kikon, a former BJP spokesperson and Nagaland minister who left the party earlier this year, and Daniel Langthasa, a former Congress member from Assam's North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council. The leaders stated their goal is to create a unified indigenous political voice for the region. A nine-member committee led by James Sangma will finalize the structure and modalities within 45 days. The committee is also tasked with reaching out to other regional parties. This move could significantly reshape political dynamics across Northeast India.
Shared Goals and Regional Concerns Drive Unity Effort
The proposed entity will address common challenges facing Northeastern communities, including protection of areas under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, illegal immigration across international borders, alienation of tribal land, and healthcare access for students working outside the region. Debbarma emphasized the new party is not formed in opposition to any political force but to serve the people. He stressed the need for a political voice representing Northeasterners not only within the region but also in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Kolkata. Sangma noted that despite being part of the central government, all decisions will center on the interests of their people, strengthening their collective position through unity.
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