Conrad Sangma highlights NPP’s growth and Northeast concerns during Kohima visit

KOHIMA — National People’s Party (NPP) president and Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma—who was in Kohima on June 27—adopted a bullish stance and maintained that the NPP’s growth across the Northeast, including in Nagaland, continues despite the region’s complex political landscape.

Addressing a press conference at Hotel Japfu in Kohima late on the night of June 27, Sangma stated that the party is steadily expanding its base across the region and adapting to each state’s evolving political dynamics.

“We are building strong teams in every state. In Nagaland, we have grown from two MLAs to five. In Manipur, our vote share increased from 6% in 2017 to nearly 17% in 2022,” he said.

He underscored that the NPP represents the aspirations and concerns of the people of the Northeast. “We will continue to raise and work on issues that matter to the region,” he added.

On NPP’s position within the current Nagaland government, Sangma said that the party is actively engaging with the People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA) and Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio.

“We are in regular discussions with him. Wherever possible, the government supports our MLAs, and where it’s not, we understand and continue to move forward,” he explained.

Also read: From football fields to steel furnaces: Neiphiu Rio’s Vijayanagar visit focuses on growth

Speaking on the NPP’s goals for the next Nagaland assembly election, Sangma said that the party will aim to contest and win as many seats as possible.

“It depends on the timing, political situation, and results,” he said, adding that coalition strategies will be shaped as the scenario unfolds.

On regional issues in Meghalaya, Sangma highlighted the state's ongoing demand for the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP).

He expressed concern over the lack of response from the central government.

“We are in discussions with civil society and pressure groups to explore alternative mechanisms to regulate immigration,” he stated.

On the issue of coal mining, Sangma informed that four licences have been granted for scientific mining, and another twelve are under process and expected to be cleared in two to three months.

“We are moving toward more regulated and environmentally friendly mining practices,” he said.

Responding to recent remarks by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who suggested that English speakers in India may someday “feel ashamed,” Sangma clarified that while Indian languages must be promoted, English remains essential, especially in Northeast states.

“Our assemblies function in English. It is the official language in states like Meghalaya and Nagaland. Promoting Indian languages is important, but removing English is neither realistic nor desirable,” he said.

He added that English plays a vital role globally and must continue to be a part of the system, alongside the promotion of regional languages.

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Sangma also addressed the recent US travel advisory warning its citizens against travelling to Northeast India, including Meghalaya. Calling the advisory “unfortunate,” he said that he plans to raise the issue directly with the US Embassy through the Ministry of External Affairs.

“I believe the advisory may be based on incomplete or outdated information. As chief minister, I feel it is my responsibility to present the true picture and seek a resolution,” he said.

He noted that the recent Raja Raghuvanshi murder case in Meghalaya could have influenced the advisory and said he would clarify the matter with the concerned authorities.

During his one-day visit, Sangma also attended the NPP Nagaland State Executive Committee meeting and addressed the 5th Regional Youth Convention, where he encouraged the party’s youth leaders to strengthen NPP’s grassroots presence across the state.