VPP has ‘no takers’ in Garo Hills: Marcuise Marak

CORRESPONDENT

SHILLONG: In a bold political statement, National People’s Party (NPP) working president and Cabinet Minister in charge of Garo Hills, Marcuise N. Marak, has dismissed the relevance of the Voice of the People’s Party (VPP) in the region, stating unequivocally that the party has failed to gain traction among the people. “There are no takers for the Voice of the People’s Party in the Garo Hills, and they do not have any leader acceptable to the people in the region,” Marak said, asserting the NPP’s firm grip on its political stronghold.

Marak was equally critical of other major political players in the state, including the Congress and the Trinamool Congress (TMC). Although Congress maintains a national presence, he described its current state in the Garo Hills as bleak. “In fact, Congress is the oldest party in our country, but it is struggling in the Garo Hills now because most of their leaders have shifted to the NPP. Although they won a seat in the last MP elections, they do not have a stronghold in the region,” he explained.

Turning his attention to the TMC, Marak claimed the party is facing internal disarray and lacking direction. “Most of the TMC members are confused and indecisive about whether to remain in the party or quit. Some leaders are also uncertain about their allegiance to TMC. I won’t say the party is in shambles, but both leaders and people in the Garo Hills are hesitant to accept TMC,” he remarked. When questioned about the role of senior TMC leaders, he simply replied, “No comments.”

Despite the criticism of opposition parties, Marak acknowledged the complexities of politics in the region and emphasized the NPP’s ongoing efforts to connect with the people. “I don’t see any dominance. We are trying our level best to work with the people there,” he stated, underscoring the party’s grassroots outreach.

Looking ahead to the upcoming Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) elections, Marak revealed that the NPP is actively strengthening its base and is in touch with leaders from other political parties. “There are feelers. We will make announcements at the right moment. As the working president of NPP in charge of Garo Hills, I will be holding district-level meetings and engaging with party leaders across all districts. I have been informed that many former leaders from other parties are keen to join the NPP and be part of our family,” he shared.

He confirmed that this effort is part of the party’s broader strategy for the upcoming MDC elections, indicating a significant push by the NPP to consolidate power and expand its influence in Garo Hills.

Also Read: NE is new epicentre of India’s development journey: Jayant Chaudhary

Also Watch: