Ending weeks of speculation, Mawsynram MLA Ollan Singh Suin on Friday broke his silence, saying that eight UDP MLAs are ready to join the BJP if the party’s central leadership agrees to their demands, bringing some clarity to speculation over a possible switch.
Speaking after the UDP’s emergency CEC meeting, Suin clarified that the group comprises eight MLAs, not nine, as widely reported.
The group wants Khasi to be included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, restrictions on coal mining in Meghalaya to be lifted and action taken on FCRA-related issues.
They are also seeking the implementation of the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (MRSSA).
Suin said the group would take up these demands with the BJP’s central leadership and indicated that their decision to join the party would depend on the response from the BJP leadership.
He noted that the Meghalaya Assembly has already passed a resolution seeking the inclusion of Khasi in the Eighth Schedule, while civil society groups have also been raising the issue with the Union Government.
Suin did not reveal the identities of all eight MLAs. Other UDP legislators also chose not to speak to the media after the CEC meeting.