Meghalaya UDP MLAs Set to Join BJP Ahead of 2028 Elections

In a significant political shift, eight MLAs from the United Democratic Party (UDP) in Meghalaya are preparing to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This decision follows assurances from Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding their demands, including coal mining regulations and the inclusion of the Khasi language in the Eighth Schedule. The transition is expected to reshape the political landscape ahead of the 2028 Assembly elections, potentially increasing the BJP's strength in the Assembly. The UDP currently holds a substantial position in the ruling coalition, and this move could have far-reaching implications for governance and policy priorities in the state.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 17, 2026, 13:24 IST

UDP Legislators Transition to BJP

File image of UDP legislators, including Shylla (left), with Union Home Minister Shah (centre), in New Delhi.(Photo:X)

Shillong, Sept 17: Eight members of the United Democratic Party (UDP) in Meghalaya are preparing to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) following assurances from Union Home Minister Amit Shah regarding their demands, which include issues related to coal mining and the inclusion of the Khasi language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, as stated by leaders from both parties.

During a public gathering at Byndihati, UDP MLA Kyrmen Shylla revealed that their decision was influenced by discussions with Shah and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

Shylla mentioned, “We have communicated to the BJP leadership that eight UDP MLAs are ready to join the party,” noting that this number might increase to nine.

Representing Khliehriat, Shylla indicated that Shah requested the UDP legislators to finalize their transition within four to five days, but they insisted on receiving firm commitments regarding their demands before making the switch.

He added that the BJP promised to form a committee immediately after their joining to systematically address their concerns.

“If the BJP fails to honor the assurances given to us, we can withdraw our support the very next day,” Shylla warned.

The assurances pertain to several critical issues, including coal mining regulations, the inclusion of Khasi in the Eighth Schedule, the implementation of the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act, and the relocation of the Harijan Colony from Them Iew Mawlong.

“These commitments are what convinced me to join the BJP,” Shylla emphasized, clarifying that his decision was not motivated by any grievances against the UDP or its president, Metbah Lyngdoh.

Senior BJP leader AL Hek confirmed to the media that the transition of the UDP MLAs is imminent. He stated, “I had a direct conversation with the Union Home Minister, who assured me that this is certain,” adding that the BJP fully supports the demands raised by the UDP legislators.

Shylla, however, refuted any claims of discord with Chief Minister Sangma.

The UDP currently holds the position of the second-largest party within the NPP-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance, boasting 12 MLAs, two of whom serve as ministers in the government led by Conrad Sangma.

If eight of its members defect, it will significantly reshape the ruling coalition and bolster the BJP's representation in the 60-member Assembly from two to ten.

This shift would enhance the BJP's influence over ministerial roles and policy decisions as the state approaches the 2028 Assembly elections.

The NPP, under Sangma's leadership, has 33 MLAs, while its ally HSDP has two members. Additionally, two Independent MLAs support the government, bringing the ruling MDA's strength to 51.

On the opposition side, the Trinamool Congress has five MLAs, and the Voice of the People Party (VPP) has four.