Lapang sworn in as Meghalaya CM, NCP sulks

GUWAHATI: After months of uncertainty, veteran congress leader DD Lapang was sworn in as chief minister of Meghalaya on Wednesday. A miffed NCP, dumped by Congress as its running mate, has hinted at possible fallout of this decision at the national level.

In a dramatic turnaround, the Congress, after holding discussions with the NCP for formation of the government, chose United Democratic Party (UDP) as its coalition partner.

According to a statement issued by NCP spokesperson in Meghalaya, James K Sangma: "PA Sangma has met NCP president Sharad Pawar to discuss the scenario and the latter expressed shock over the behaviour of the Congress.

He also had a telephonic conversation with the Prime Minister and Ms Sonia Gandhi and strongly reacted to this move by the Congress and hinted at the impact on the Congress-NCP alliance at the national level. This is significant in view of the Lok Sabha results which will be out on May 16."

NCP agreed to enter into dialogue with the Congress due to the personal initiative taken by the prime minister, himself. Mr Manmohan Singh initially discussed this issue with Mr Sharad Pawar.

Mr Pawar suggested to the prime minister that he should discuss the matter with Mr Sangma. In the meeting held on May 5, the prime minister suggested that NCP and Congress work together for the sake of stability and proper governance of the state and the understanding between the two parties should be fair, reasonable and accommodating, the NCP claimed.

Meanwhile, governor RS Mooshahary administered the oath of office and secrecy to Mr Lapang, who is taking reins of the state for the fifth time. The Congress-led Meghalaya United Alliance has been given 15 days to prove its majority in the House.

The alliance has 37 MLAs ��� 26 from the Congress, nine from UDP and two Independents ��� in the 60-member House, which now has an effective strength of 55.