SHILLONG:
Former cabinet minister Adolf Lu Hitler Marak, former BJP state vice president David Ch Marak, and former education joint director Bhupendra G Momin, joined the opposition All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) on August 25.
AITC state vice president and Rangsakona legislator Zenith Sangma welcomed the new party members at a function held in Tura.
“Today, we are happy to witness that a senior leader has decided to join Meghalaya TMC. Adolf Lu Hitler Marak had the privilege to serve the people of Meghalaya in different capacities as the Forest and Environment Minister and for three terms as a Member of the Legislative Assembly. We also have with us David Ch Marak and Bhupendra G. Momin, who had also served the people of Meghalaya with full integrity. We welcome them with open arms to work for the betterment of the state,” Sangma said.
Addressing the people over the need for good governance in the state, Adolf Lu Marak, who is also a former three-time MLA said, “Nothing is as important as our land, and our lands are being taken away. That is why we should seek a leader who will work for the truth, justice, and for the welfare of the people. We should support such leaders. As for me, I believe in such leadership so let’s all be together and support those who can bring back our land which has been taken away from us.”
Furthermore, attacking the Conrad-led MDA government over the Assam-Meghalaya border dispute, Marak said, “Before signing the MoU, you have to know whom this land belongs to. According to the Sixth Schedule. Does it really belong to the government or does it belong to the people of Meghalaya? As far as I know, this land belongs to the people of Meghalaya. The government does not have the right to make a decision for even a piece of land.”
Marak emphasized that the people of Meghalaya are fed up with the MDA govt. and are looking for an alternative in the coming assembly elections.
David Ch Marak on joining the party fold said, “I have joined because our state, currently, does not have quality leadership to bring in socio-economic development. So, as part of the Trinamool Congress, I want to contribute to developing Garo Hills. In comparison to other states, Meghalaya is developing at an extremely slow pace and in a disproportionate manner.”
Further, he also pointed out the price rise in Garo Hills.
He said, “In Garo Hills, the price of everyday commodities is sky-rocketing. So, we must stand united in fighting against the government that is working against the welfare of the people.”
While wrapping-up the event, the newly-inducted member, Adolf Lu Hitler urged the people to embody the spirit of democracy. He said, “We may think that elections happen every term, but don’t vote just because they are your relatives, friends, or because it’s an old party. Instead, one must vote based on what issues you have pending. If someone gives you Rs.5000/- for how long will you keep using that?”