Two Independent MLAs withdraw support to Opposition forum

In a setback to the Opposition Meghalaya People's Forum (MPF), two Independent legislators from Garo Hills today withdrew their support to the forum.
Announcing this in the floor of the House here on the first day of the five-day Autumn session, Assembly Speaker A T Mondal said, "I have received a copy of the letter of withdrawal of support which was submitted to the MPF Leader Donkupar Roy by Saleng A Sangma, legislator from Gambegre and John K Sangma from South Tura."
The letter states, "We hereby withdraw our support extended to the MPF and disassociate ourselves from all activities of the forum with immediate effect from today."

Separate seat arrangement was also made for the two Independent legislators in the Assembly.
With the withdrawal of support of the two legislators, the strength of the opposition MPF is reduced to only 10 members comprising eight legislators of the United Democratic Party (UDP) and two of the National People's Party (NPP).
Formed after the 2013 Assembly elections, the MPF initially had 13 members in the 60-member House.

Last year it was reduced to 12 when Chokpot Garo National Council legislator Clifford R Marak died.
While the Independent legislators have opted out of the MPF, they however, decided to continue to serve in the Opposition.

In the 2013 assembly elections, Congress had come to power with 29 seats in the 60-member House.