SHILLONG: 2 May 2023 (PTI Source)
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has recognized VPP (Voice of the People Party) as the ‘State Party’ in Meghalaya after reviewing its poll performance in the recently held assembly elections.
The party currently has four MLAs in the state assembly, and the recognition will enable them to enjoy certain benefits under the Reservation & Allotment provision of the Election Symbols (Order, 1968).
Manish Kumar, Under Secy. of ECI, confirmed the news, stating that the recognition was granted based on a review of the VPP's poll performance. This recognition by the EC allows them to contest not just assembly elections, but also local body polls, including municipal and panchayat elections, using their winnower reserved symbol, which is a farming tool used for separating grain from chaff.
This recognition will come as a boost for the VPP, which has been steadily gaining ground in the state's political landscape. The party's focus on the rights of the common people has struck a chord with many voters, leading to their success in the recent assembly elections. With this recognition, the VPP will have a greater say in the state's political affairs, and its policies and ideas will get more attention and consideration from the government.
The VPP's achievement is also significant in the context of Meghalaya's political landscape, where only a handful of parties have been recognized as state parties by the ECI. This recognition will give the VPP more visibility and credibility, and they will be able to build a stronger base of supporters and followers across the state. It remains to be seen how the VPP will utilize this recognition to further its goals and agendas, but for now, it is certainly a step in the right direction for the party.