Dynastic politics continues to thrive in Meghalaya – an issue both defended and criticised.
Fourteen per cent of the MPs, MLAs and ministers in the state have dynastic political backgrounds, a study has found.
The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) conducted an analysis on the sitting MPs, MLAs and MLCs in India with dynastic political backgrounds. It analysed 63 MPs, MLAs and ministers in Meghalaya, out of which nine have dynastic political backgrounds.
The ADR has found that six of the 49 MPs, MLAs and ministers from the National People’s Party had dynastic backgrounds.
The dynastic background rates for females exceed males in Meghalaya like in many other states.
The ADR report states that out of the four sitting female MPs/MLAs/MLCs analysed in Meghalaya, three have dynastic background. Of the remaining 59 male MPs/MLAs/MLCs, six have dynastic political background.
Dynastic politics in India refers to the practice where political power is concentrated within families, with multiple members from the same family holding elected positions or influential roles in politics. It involves the transfer of political influence, seats, or leadership from one generation to another, often leveraging family name, wealth, and networks. Dynastic politics has been a persistent feature of Indian democracy since independence.
According to the report, Khliehriat MLA Kyrmen Shylla has dynastic connection as his father, Kor Sympli, is a former Member of the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council.
The report also mentions Shella MLA Balajied Kupar Synrem whose father, Donkupar Roy, was the head of the United Democratic Party (UDP) and Chief Minister of Meghalaya.
Another sitting MLA with dynastic connection is Sohiong MLA Synshar Kupar Roy Lyngdoh Thabah. He is the nephew of the late HDR Lyngdoh (a senior UDP leader and former Meghalaya minister).
Umroi MLA Damanbait Lamare’s father, Ngaitlang Dhar, is a former MLA.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma also has dynastic connection as his father, the late Purno Agitok Sangma, served as Chief Minister, Speaker of Lok Sabha, Union Minister, and Tura MP.
According to the report, Health Minister and Jowai MLA Wailadmiki Shylla also has dynastic connection as he is the brother-in-law of Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar.
East Shillong MLA Ampareen Lyngdoh’s father, Peter G Marbaniang, was a Lok Sabha member, Assembly Speaker and minister in the state government.
Miani D Shira is another legislator named in the report. Her father, Mukul M Sangma, is a former Chief Minister and a sitting MLA.
Gambegre MLA Mehtab Chandee Agitok Sangma also has dynastic connection as her husband, Conrad K Sangma, is the Chief Minister.