The Voice Of The People Party (VPP) began its peaceful sit-in protest on September 13, 2024, at Malki Ground in Shillong, opposing the Assembly’s refusal to allow VPP’s MLAs to debate the rising prices of essential commodities.
Speaking to the media, VPP President Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit stated that the protest was sparked by the Assembly’s decision to block discussions on the price hike, despite efforts from the opposition. According to Basaiawmoit, had the Assembly allowed a proper debate, VPP would not have taken to the streets.
Basaiawmoit criticized the government for limiting opposition members’ time to discuss vital issues affecting the state. He dismissed the government’s reasoning that the price increase is due to the absence of railway connectivity, calling for statistical proof to back their claims.
The VPP leader also raised concerns about the stark difference in prices between Meghalaya and neighboring states, accusing local checkpoints, including those run by district councils and the police, of contributing to the price surge. He pointed out that while local farmers’ produce prices are falling, essential goods from outside the state are seeing a dramatic increase, making life harder for ordinary citizens.
The sit-in protest was attended by party leaders, including MP Dr. Ricky AJ Syngkon and several VPP MLAs, alongside numerous supporters.
