D.D. Lapang Appointed as Chief Adviser to MDA Government

Staff Correspondent

Shillong: In a surprise move that is expected to dent the Congress party in the state, the NPP-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government on Thursday notified that D.D. Lapang has been appointed as the Chief Adviser of the present dispensation in the state.

The notification issued by the political department came as the bolt in the blue for many political observers. Lapang resigned from the Congress two weeks ago with witty charges against Rahul Gandhi for his policy of phasing out the people from its old pantheon. The Sentinel got in touch with Lapang through telephone on Thursday evening and he admitted of having received the letter of appointment. Asked on whether he will take this new mantle, Lapang said, “I know who will be asking this but I tell you in two or three days.” Further on being questioned on whether he is joining the NPP, Lapang stated, “I am not with anybody right now and let’s see.”

As per the notification issued by the Secretary of the Political Department, Lapang will be entitled with a Grade A category, with facilities and perks. NPP leader and State Home Minister James K Sangma told The Sentinel, “We felt that the man who has served the decades for many years will help us in governance”, adding, “ we will utilize all his expertise to serve the people”. Asked further on whether he will be joining the NPP, James K Sangma stated, “I have no say on our respected leader choice except for giving the post that he deserved in shepherding us to progress”. Some senior Congress leaders expressed their surprise at the announcement by the state government to accommodate Lapang in the dispensation. “ We knew something will be happening but never stuck us so soon”, stated a member of the AICC on condition of anonymity . On being questioned further on the impact it will have on the Congress party in the state, the leader said that the MPCC will come with responses in two or three days.