NPP Confident of Winning All Five Ri Bhoi Seats in Upcoming Shillong Byelection

Shillong, India Jul 25, 2026 ALN: SHILLONG, JUL 24: National People’s Party (NPP) National Vice President and Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar on Friday expressed confidence that the party will lead in all five constituencies of Ri-Bhoi district in the upcoming Shillong Lok Sabha byelection, citing growing support for the party across the Khasi and Jaintia Hills regions.

Speaking at an election campaign in Patharkhmah for NPP candidate Dr. DRL Nonglait, Dhar said the turnout and response from voters showed the party’s message was resonating statewide. This assertion comes at a time when political dynamics are shifting, with various parties vying for influence and representation in the region.

“In the Jaintia Hills region he already has full support. In Ri-Bhoi we will lead in all five constituencies. Go to West Khasi Hills — no need to even discuss — we will win with honor. Even in East Khasi Hills we are growing every day,” Dhar said, reflecting a strong sense of optimism within the party. His comments highlight the NPP's strategy of consolidating its base in regions where they have historically performed well.

The NPP, founded in 2013, has been a significant player in politics, particularly since forming the government in 2018. The party's rise has been attributed to a combination of effective governance, a focus on development, and the ability to forge alliances with various regional and national parties. This has allowed them to present a united front in a state where political allegiances can be fluid and often change with the electoral winds.

Dhar credited the growing backing to the performance of the NPP-led Democratic Alliance (MDA) government, which has been in power since 2018. The MDA coalition includes several regional and national parties, and has focused on various developmental initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, healthcare, and education in the state. The coalition has also emphasized the importance of local governance, which resonates with voters who seek accountability and responsiveness from their elected representatives.

“The people have realized the NPP government works and talks less. Today, intellectuals and citizens alike understand that to run the state you need a sensible party, not one that is only big on speeches,” he said. This statement underscores a critical element of political communication in the region, where voters are increasingly looking for tangible results over mere rhetoric. The NPP's governance model, which focuses on actionable policies rather than populist promises, appears to be gaining traction among the electorate.

Dhar projected Dr. Nonglait, a North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) professor with multiple degrees, as a candidate with both academic credentials and grassroots experience. His educational background and professional experience are seen as assets that could enhance the party’s appeal among educated voters and those seeking a representative with a solid understanding of local issues. This strategy aligns with a broader trend in Indian politics, where candidates with educational qualifications and professional expertise are often viewed more favorably by the electorate.

He noted that Nonglait comes from a humble background and would understand the challenges faced by ordinary people. This emphasis on relatability is a common strategy in Indian politics, where candidates often seek to connect with voters on a personal level, showcasing their own struggles and achievements as a means to build trust. In a state like , where tribal identities and local issues play a significant role in politics, having a candidate who embodies the experiences of the electorate can be a powerful advantage.

“The decision to field Dr. Nonglait was not taken by the party alone. We consulted leaders from all 36 constituencies and spoke with one voice. Everyone agreed he is the right person to represent Khasi, Jaintia, and in Parliament,” Dhar added. This collaborative approach to candidate selection may strengthen party unity and foster a sense of inclusiveness among party members, which is crucial in a coalition government. By involving local leaders in the decision-making process, the NPP aims to create a sense of ownership among its members and enhance grassroots support.

Urging voters to participate in the byelection, likely to be held in October or November, Dhar asked supporters to vote for the party’s book symbol. The significance of symbols in Indian elections cannot be understated, as they often serve as a visual shorthand for party identity and values. In a country where electoral literacy varies, symbols can play a crucial role in helping voters identify their preferred candidates and parties.

“Come out on polling day, men, women and youth. Cast your valuable vote so Dr. Nonglait wins with honor. Only then can we work properly for the state and for your constituency,” he said. This call to action emphasizes the importance of voter turnout, particularly among younger demographics, who may be pivotal in determining the outcome of the byelection. Engaging youth voters, who often have different priorities and concerns than older generations, is essential for any party seeking to secure a mandate in the current political environment.

The Deputy CM also highlighted development under Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma over the last eight years, saying is now recognized nationally for work in tourism, roads, health, and sports, and for properly implementing central schemes worth thousands of crores. This focus on development is strategically significant as it aligns the party with national narratives around progress and governance, potentially attracting voters who prioritize economic growth and infrastructure improvements. The NPP's emphasis on delivering results can be seen as a counter to the criticisms often leveled against political parties that focus primarily on identity politics.

He praised Jirang MLA Sosthenes Sohtun for infrastructure work in his constituency, saying nearly 95% of roads in Jirang have been covered and the area will feature prominently in the next phase of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), expected by September-October. Highlighting such achievements serves to reinforce the NPP’s image as a party committed to tangible improvements in the lives of residents. By showcasing successful projects and initiatives, the party aims to build credibility and trust among voters.

Dhar concluded by arguing that having an MP from the same NDA dispensation at the Centre would bring greater benefits to the state. “If we get an MP from the same government, imagine how many blessings you will receive,” he told the gathering. This statement reflects a broader strategy employed by regional parties in India, where alignment with national parties can be leveraged to secure resources and influence for local development. The NPP's positioning within the NDA framework enables it to access funding and support for various projects, which can be a significant advantage in a resource-constrained environment.

The upcoming byelection is not just a test of strength for the NPP but also a reflection of the political landscape in , where local issues intersect with national politics. As the election date approaches, the NPP will likely continue to focus on its development agenda while also addressing the concerns of voters about local governance, representation, and the role of the state in the broader context of Indian democracy. The byelection presents an opportunity for the NPP to consolidate its power and further entrench its position in the state’s political framework.

In conclusion, the NPP’s confidence in winning all five Ri-Bhoi seats is indicative of its strategic positioning and the importance of grassroots engagement in the electoral process. As political parties gear up for the byelection, the focus will remain on how effectively they can communicate their achievements and connect with voters on the issues that matter most to them. The outcome of this byelection will not only impact the NPP's standing in but could also have implications for the party's future role in national politics, particularly as it seeks to expand its influence beyond its traditional strongholds.