Shillong: Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar has issued a legal notice to Vincent H. Pala, President of the Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC), demanding ₹100 crore in damages for alleged defamatory statements made during a press conference on August 22.
The notice, sent by Dhar’s legal team from Sharan and Associates LLP, claims that Pala made false and defamatory accusations aimed at tarnishing Dhar’s reputation. These statements, made at the MPCC office in Shillong, were widely reported by the media.
Pala allegedly accused Dhar of being involved in illegal activities and acting as a spokesperson for the RSS and BJP. Dhar, who has served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly since 2013 and currently holds the position of Deputy Chief Minister, has denied these allegations, calling them baseless and politically motivated.
The legal notice highlights Dhar’s extensive service to Meghalaya, including his roles in various ministerial positions, and argues that Pala’s statements were made with malicious intent to damage his reputation and public standing.
Pala has been given seven days to issue a public apology, retract his statements, and commit to not making similar allegations in the future. If he fails to comply, Dhar’s legal team has indicated that they will pursue further legal action, including a defamation suit and possible criminal complaints under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.
It is worth noting that MPCC President Vincent H. Pala had recently accused the National People’s Party (NPP) of using illegal funds from drugs, coal mining and contract operations to lure leaders from other political parties.
Additionally, Leader of the Opposition Dr. Mukul Sangma recently threatened to petition the Prime Minister regarding alleged illegal activities by the ruling NPP.
