AIM against gambling in melas

The Awakening Indian Movement (AIM) has sought the intervention of the deputy commissioner of East Khasi Hills district to ensure a blanket ban on gambling at melas being organized by different agencies.

Speaking to media persons, chairman of AIM Bansharai Marbaniang said that many people from other part of the country come to Meghalaya to host various kinds of melas, however these melas have games that encourage gambling with money which is detrimental and have a negative impact on the welfare of the people.

Marbaniang alleged that melas throughout the country are being held in order to provide entertainment to all citizens where they can experience happiness especially for children, students, and youth but at present melas in Meghalaya are being held with gambling which have detrimental and a negative impact on the welfare of the people.

“During our visit to the mela held at the Parking Lot outside Polo Ground in Shillong, the mela hosted various gambling activities with money and young people and students in uniform participated in various gambling games” said Marbaniang.

Marbaniang said that AIM is not against organizing melas in the state, however it stands against the act of gambling that is being held at the venues hence the AIM sought the intervention into this matter.

Two PDF legislators likely to merge with NPP

The two legislators of the People’s Democratic Front (PDF) are likely to merge with the National People’s Party (NPP) ahead of the adjourned poll to the Sohiong Assembly seat.

PDF working president and Mawkynrew legislator Banteidor Lyngdoh did not deny the rumour and said that they will discuss the issue at the right time and that there is nothing to write about.

He however admitted that talks are there to merge with the NPP. “Talks are there to merge with the NPP and we will take a call at the right time and let you know,” Lyngdoh said.

The PDF has two MLAs – Lyngdoh and PDF president Gavin M Mylliem, who is also Sohra legislator – in the current 59-member House.

Lyngdoh said he cannot say anything further as decisions will not be taken by him alone.

Meanwhile, two legislators of the Hill State People Democratic Party (HSPDP) – Shakliar Warjri (Mawthadraishan) and Methodius Dkhar (Mawshynrut) – have completely denied that there is any move to merge with the ruling NPP.

“There is no such move to merge with the NPP,” Shakliar maintained.