Shillong, July 14: Under pressure from his own MLAs, chief minister D.D. Lapang has decided to convene a Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting on July 24 to explain his stand on the downsizing of the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government. Lapang, who was forced to prune his ministry from 41 to 12 members to comply with the latest amendment to the Constitution, has been attacked by senior Congress MLAs for including several first-timers in place of seasoned and experienced hands.
Regional partners like the United Democratic Party (UDP), too, have protested against the chief minister?s decision.
Outgoing home minister R.G. Lyngdoh and Congress legislator Tony Curtis Lyngdoh have joined the clamour against Lapang.
Several organisations in the Garo hills have demanded an explanation for the last minute exclusion of Manirul Islam Sarkar from the 12-member ministry and induction of Sayeedullah Nongrum.
Many social organisations have appealed for the removal of Nongrum and induction of Sarkar in his place.
In some parts of the Garo hills, supporters of the Congress and Independent MLAs have threatened a demonstration if their representatives were not included in the ministry.
In South Garo Hills, the district administration has clamped prohibitory orders under Section 144 CrPC to foil any attempts by supporters of the Congress and other parties to disturb the law and order.
While Lapang has been silent on the matter, his aides in the Congress are said to be working overtime to pacify the disgruntled MLAs.