Shillong: Former cabinet minister and the unanimous candidate of the National People's Party (NPP)-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government, James PK Sangma, was declared elected unopposed to the lone Rajya Sabha seat from Meghalaya on Thursday.
The certificate of election was handed over by Malthus S Sangma, secretary of the Meghalaya legislative assembly and returning officer for the Rajya Sabha election, who officially declared James elected to the Upper House following the completion of the withdrawal process of nomination papers.
Speaking to the media, James, the elder brother of Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, said he would work to ensure that Meghalaya and the northeast's concerns receive greater attention in Parliament.
"Given the limited representation of the northeast in Parliament, securing adequate opportunities to raise regional issues is often a challenge," James said.
"However, through persistence and constructive engagement, I will strive to ensure that the voice of Meghalaya and the northeast is heard more effectively in the Upper House," he added.
Outlining his priorities, James said he would actively pursue key issues concerning Meghalaya, including constitutional recognition of Khasi and Garo languages through the incorporation of both into the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution and the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) to check influx of outsiders into the tribal state. He noted that these issues have already been endorsed through resolutions passed by the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly and pledged to carry forward the collective aspirations of the people in Parliament.
On border infrastructure and security, James said he would take up the completion of pending projects, including border fencing and other schemes, in consultation with both the state and central governments.
Addressing concerns over illegal immigration and reported attempts to push Bangladeshi nationals into Indian territory, James reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding India's territorial integrity.
He also highlighted the importance of strengthening trade and economic engagement with Bangladesh, given Meghalaya's strategic location along an extensive international border.
James Sangma received his certificate of election in Shillong on Thursday.
