Meghalaya: Mukul Sangma's Delhi Visit Fuels Speculation of Potential Shift from TMC Amid Garo Hills Buzz

Shillong: Political circles in Meghalaya are abuzz with speculation over a possible major realignment, triggered by the concurrent presence of prominent leaders in New Delhi. Chief Minister and National People's Party (NPP) president Conrad K Sangma, alongside Deputy Chief Minister and state NPP president Prestone Tynsong, are in the capital.

Trinamool Congress (TMC) Leader of Opposition Mukul Sangma arrived in Delhi on Saturday evening, intensifying the intrigue.

Observers are debating if these visits coincide by chance or point to significant behind-the-scenes discussions, especially regarding Mukul Sangma's political trajectory. Sources report strained relations with TMC's central leadership, exacerbated by the party's underwhelming showing in the 2023 Assembly elections (securing only five seats) and reduced attention from Kolkata toward the Northeast unit.

Having spent nearly a decade in opposition, the former Chief Minister and influential Garo Hills figure Mukul Sangma has fewer viable paths forward. Joining the BJP is deemed unlikely, and forming a new party is seen as risky with limited potential returns. Against this backdrop, a move to the ruling NPP is viewed as a realistic possibility, potentially reshaping the delicate electoral balance in Garo Hills, where Mukul wields substantial clout.

Insiders reveal that Mukul has initiated contact with various state parties, though specifics are undisclosed, and ties with TMC's national command have reportedly faded.

Family dynamics add another layer, with Mukul's brother Zenith Sangma, recently rejoining Congress after exiting TMC, creating reported tension within the powerful Sangma family, a key player in Garo Hills politics.

Mukul's 2021 departure from Congress followed internal rifts, notably his marginalisation when Vincent H Pala became state president. As Congress rebuilds for the 2028 elections, reconciliation rumours persist, but party leaders exercise caution due to Mukul's ongoing rivalry with Tura MP Saleng A Sangma.

No official comments have been issued by the involved leaders, and NPP insiders have labelled reports of imminent discussions as speculation while noting the party's welcoming stance. Analysts emphasise that these developments are unconfirmed, with Meghalaya's politics closely monitoring outcomes from the Delhi engagements. Recent statements from Mukul Sangma affirm his commitment to strengthening TMC ahead of upcoming council elections, further underscoring the fluid nature of the situation.

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