Shillong, July 8: The opposition Voice of the People Party (VPP) on Wednesday expressed disappointment over the invitation extended to Assam chief minister for Behdeinkhlam Festival, citing ongoing border concerns.
“The VPP would have been more grateful to the organizers had they avoided inviting Mr Himanta Biswa as the chief guest for the occasion,” VPP spokesperson Dr AW Rani said in a statement.
The party has accused Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma of creating “a sense of insecurity” among people living along the Meghalaya-Assam border, and questioned his presence as chief guest at the Behdeinkhlam festival celebrations.
“It is undeniable that he is instrumental in instilling a sense of insecurity in the minds of the people living in the border areas,” the statement said.
The VPP extended greetings for the festival, but stressed that the occasion should reflect local sentiments.
“The VPP extends its warm greetings to everyone celebrating Shad Behdeinkhlam. May this sacred festival bring peace, unity, and prosperity to our people,” Rani said.
“Shad Behdeinkhlam is a celebration of our culture, identity, and unity. We hope the occasion remains one that unites our people and reflects the sentiments and aspirations of the people of Meghalaya,” he added.
