Last-minute intervention by the Congress high command ahead of bypolls to three assembly constituencies in the state has prevented a possible split in the party’s Meghalaya unit, but a permanent solution is a “work in progress”.
The Meghalaya unit of the Congress was in turmoil after former chief minister Mukul Sangma expressed his dismay at the appointment of Vincent H Pala as the state unit president “without consultation” in August. As speculation of an imminent split in the party ranks gained momentum, the Congress leadership called both the leaders to Delhi.
Congress MP Rahul Gandhi met both of them on Sunday, while Congress President Sonia Gandhi Met him on Monday. talking to Indian Express After meeting Sonia Gandhi, Sangma, who is now serving as the Leader of the Opposition, said: “As I have said, some issues need to be resolved and they should be looked into. Back to back meetings The process is on, consultations are on. The party will take appropriate steps,” Sangma said.
Pala sought to downplay reports on the rift.
“It appears that there was a gap in communication in which he (Sangma) was not consulted or taken into confidence during my appointment. I think the Congress leadership tried to call him but he could not be contacted as the assembly session was going on. This is a small issue. There is no personal animosity in this. He is a very senior leader,” said Pala.
Speaking to The Indian Express, Sangma underscored the need for political parties to “display harmony and harmony” and “realized the magnitude of responsibility on them to preserve and protect democracy”.
Asked specifically whether the Congress will form a united front in Meghalaya, Sangma said, “The whole objective (of the dialogue process) is directed towards that. All parties have to face such challenges. We’ll see how we navigate the issues. “
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