SHILLONG:
War of words between Chief Minister Conrad Sangma and Leader of Opposition Mukul Sangma over the reference of TMC being an “outsider” party continues.
Two days after the chief minister justified that his remarks were in line with what TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee had said during the West Bengal elections, Mukul Sangma asserted that such “racial slurs” are unaccepted as they are not in sync with the ethos, core and values of a democracy.
“While the entire world is looking up to India for being vibrant and diverse yet united, here we have people trying to create a sense of divide,” Sangma told media persons after filing his nomination from Songsak at Tura on Monday.
Hitting out at Conrad for his alleged attempt to divide the people, the TMC leader said the chief minister should lead by example and should start first by apologising for making “unacceptable” remarks against a national party.
“These racial and aggressive narratives are being promoted by their (NPP) cadres and all of this is possible because of the leadership. I pity the narrow-mindedness and racial mindset of NPP leaders” he added.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, on Saturday, dismissed as lies the allegations of a “Bengali” tag labelled on the Trinamool Congress that was pointed at him by TMC leader Mukul Sangma, terming it as nothing short of an attempt to score some brownie points in the heat of the electoral battle.
“There is a difference between a ‘Bengali’ and a ‘Bengal’ party. I never said Trinamool is Bengali. I said it is a Bengal-based party. That is the truth. Where is there a racial slur for me to apologise?” questioned the chief minister.
I don’t have to tell Conrad about my political connections: Mukul
Launching a scathing attack against the chief minister over statements that Mukul is risking himself by contesting from two seats — Songsak and Tikrikilla, the leader of the opposition said, “I don’t have to tell Mr Conrad Sangma about my political connect I have with the people.”
“Over the years, I have been given the privilege to serve the people and had created an environment that promotes a sense of oneness; therefore, the people, wherever I go, connect with me – be it Songsak, Tikrikilla or Ampati,” Sangma said.
Accusing the chief minister and the NPP of trying to dilute the spirit of oneness, Sangma said, “For five years, the people have gone through an agonising experience and the desire for change is visible. I, along with TMC Meghalaya, will reignite the people and rebuild this state.”
Stating that the thirst and desire for change were because of instances of alleged corruption and malpractices by the incumbent government, Sangma said, “It is upon us to re-establish the state and free the people from deprivation and discrimination.”