Shillong, June 23: Former West Shillong MLA Mohendro Rapsang on Tuesday formally joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), marking his return to active electoral politics ahead of the next elections, while the party simultaneously reiterated its firm opposition to illegal infiltration along Meghalaya’s border areas. Rapsang was inducted into the BJP in Shillong by state BJP president Rikman G. Momin and cabinet minister Sanbor Shullai in the presence of party leaders, workers and mandal members.
Expressing gratitude after joining the party, Rapsang said he was inspired by the leadership of Narendra Modi and the BJP’s vision for nation-building. He said India was progressing with strength, confidence and global recognition under Modi’s leadership, which motivated him to continue serving the public. The former legislator pledged to work sincerely for the welfare of the people and to advance the aspirations of Meghalaya through grassroots engagement and development-oriented politics.
Rapsang, who was previously elected as a Congress MLA and later contested the 2023 Assembly elections on a National People’s Party (NPP) ticket, lost to UDP leader Paul Lyngdoh.
Welcoming the former MLA into the party, BJP state president Rikman G. Momin said the BJP remains open to leaders who wish to strengthen the organisation but made it clear that the party does not guarantee election tickets to new entrants. He said the focus remains on strengthening the party and working collectively to win constituencies rather than promoting individual ambitions. Momin also indicated that more leaders could join the BJP in the coming months, although he declined to reveal specific names.
Addressing concerns over border security, Momin also reaffirmed the BJP’s zero-tolerance policy toward illegal infiltration. Referring to the recent incident in the Mahendraganj area of South West Garo Hills, he said the matter had been resolved peacefully and did not appear to involve any Bangladeshi national. According to him, the individual involved was believed to be suffering from mental health issues and had been found roaming in the area.
While stating that details regarding the person’s entry were still unclear, Momin stressed that the BJP strongly opposes any form of illegal infiltration. He said the party would continue to work against unlawful entry into the state, while clarifying that individuals entering through legal channels have the right to do so. The BJP leader reiterated that safeguarding border security remains an important priority for the party.
