NPP opposes implementation of UCC in Meghalaya 

Guwahati: The National People's Party (NPP) reiterated its staunch opposition to the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Meghalaya, despite its inclusion in the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) election manifesto.

NPP state president, Prestone Tynsong, reaffirmed this stance during an election rally in Mawthadraishan, warning against attempts to mislead the public regarding the party's position.

Tynsong emphasized that the NPP has consistently opposed the UCC since 2018 and reiterated its stance during the recent budget session in the Assembly.

He recalled the party's proactive engagement with various political entities and pressure groups to oppose the Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB), now the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), which led to provisions exempting certain areas in Meghalaya.

Tynsong underscored that electing NPP candidate Ampareen Lyngdoh would strengthen the party's position to advocate for pending demands such as the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) and the inclusion of Khasi and Garo languages in the Eighth Schedule.

However, the Voice of People's Party (VPP) expressed scepticism regarding the NPP's stance, citing the absence of their election manifesto and suggesting alignment with the BJP's agenda.

VPP chief Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit cautioned voters against supporting the NPP, arguing that the BJP's manifesto contradicts the interests of Meghalaya's indigenous population.

Basaiawmoit highlighted the transparency of the VPP, which had released its election manifesto earlier, contrasting it with what he perceives as ambiguity surrounding the NPP's alignment with the BJP's agenda.