SHILLONG : The Voice of the People Party (VPP)-led Executive Committee in the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) has come under fresh scrutiny following the resignation of Executive Member Pynkhrawborlin Kharjahrin, a development that has fuelled speculation over possible unease within the ruling party.Kharjahrin, who was in charge of the Council Assets Department, is understood to have submitted his resignation on June 19. The resignation was subsequently accepted by the Governor.
While the Mawkyrwat MDC reportedly cited increasing responsibilities in his constituency as the reason behind his decision, the sudden move has triggered political discussions both within and outside the Council. The resignation became evident during the ongoing KHADC budget session, where matters relating to the Council Assets Department were handled by Chief Executive Member Winston Tony Lyngdoh. Kharjahrin, however, continued to attend the session as an MDC.
The development has sparked fresh political chatter within the Council and beyond, with many questioning whether the resignation points to deeper issues within the ruling party. The resignation has also given rise to speculation about possible differences within the ruling party, although no VPP leader has publicly acknowledged any internal discord. Unconfirmed reports circulating in political circles have suggested that a few MDCs may be unhappy with developments within the party, but no formal statement or evidence has emerged to support such claims.
The issue gained further attention after Mawlai MLA Brightstarwell Marbaniang recently alleged that attempts were being made to lure VPP MDCs away from the party. The allegation was strongly denied by Nongshken MDC and NPP Parliamentary Party leader Grace Mary Kharpuri, who challenged the VPP legislator to substantiate his claim.As discussions continue over the reasons behind Kharjahrin’s resignation, attention is now focused on whether the development is an isolated decision or a sign of broader political challenges facing the VPP-led Executive Committee.
Neither Kharjahrin nor the VPP leadership has publicly elaborated on the circumstances surrounding the resignation.