Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma hints at alliance, sparks buzz of BJP's return

GUWAHATI: Without naming estranged partner BJP or any other party, Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma indicated allying with others to form a coalition government like in 2018 after exit polls suggested a hung assembly in polls held Monday.
The exit polls predicted his NPP might win 20 of the 60 seats to emerge as the single-largest party, but 11 short of the 31 required for majority mark. "If we get a fraction of the mandate, then we have to talk to parties to form the government," said Sangma. He added: "If a party can give voice to the northeast at the national level, we are working towards it."
His remark sparked speculation that he is ready to align with BJP or make new partners with Congress or TMC if they make a mark. BJP had pulled out of NPP-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance government that was helmed by him before this year's polls.