NONGPOH:
Sitting Umroi MLA and TMC candidate George B Lyngdoh, on February 4, said that the distribution of free blankets and Rs 5000 by some candidates “in a bid to buy people’s mandate” is an insult to democracy.
Indirectly hitting out at NPP candidate Damanbait Lamare, son of former Umroi legislator Ngaitlang Dhar – one of the richest men in Meghalaya, Lyngdoh questioned the motive behind showering gifts upon the people and terming it an “act of kindness”.
“Where were these rich people when COVID struck us? Did they come and distribute Rs 5000 at that time when the people really needed it?” Lyngdoh asked.
“They are attempting to buy people’s mandate in Ri Bhoi, but we will stand tall and will carry forward the name and fame of Umroi and Ri Bhoi district as a whole,” the TMC candidate told media persons after filing his nomination in Nongpoh on February 4.
Seeking re-election, Lyngdoh is confident that Umroi will produce not just a representative but a statesman who will not shy away from highlighting the issues that plague the state.
“When the 12 MLAs moved out from Congress and the remaining five suspended, it was because we understood the need to be in a party that works for the welfare of the people,” he said.
Calling TMC a people’s party, Lyngdoh said the fact that the party was able to put up 54 candidates after making its presence felt in only 8 to 9 months’ time only proves that people are accepting TMC.
Hitting out at the BJP, Lyngdoh said TMC is a party that encompasses and respects all faiths and religions.
“The 10 pledges of TMC is a roadmap that we will follow once we come to power,” he added.