Eight MLAs of Meghalaya’s United Democratic Party (UDP) on Wednesday (September 23, 2026) joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), in the presence of Union Minister Kiren Rijiju and other senior leaders, at the party headquarters in New Delhi.

Following the switchover, the BJP is now the second-largest party with 10 MLAs after the National People’s Party’s 33 in the Meghalayagovernment. The UDP’s strength, on the other hand, has reduced from 12 to four. Both the UDP and the BJP are currently allies of the NPP-led government.

The MLA’s who joined the BJP are Lahkmen Rymbui, Pius Marwein, Kyrmen Shylla, Mayralborn Syiem, Matthew Kurbah, Ollan Singh Suin, Balajied Kupar Synrem, and Synshar Kupar Roy.

‘Coalition stable’

“It is an extremely important political development, not only for the northeast but the entire country. It is a defining moment for Meghalaya… All of these eight MLAs were extremely impressed and influenced by Prime Minister Modi and our BJP-led NDA government’s performance. They decided to join the BJP,” said Mr. Rijiju at a joint press conference. BJP MP Sambit Patra, who is the party’s coordinator for northeastern States, was also present.

Responding to the development, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said: “This is between two political parties and has nothing to do with the National People’s Party. Our coalition strength remains the same… Therefore, it does not disturb the overall functioning of our government in any way.”