In a significant political shift, former Meghalaya MLA Jemino Mawthoh has confirmed he will cross over to the Bharatiya Janata Party next week, bringing his supporters with him. The announcement, made Sunday, signals another realignment in the state's increasingly fluid political landscape.

  • Jemino Mawthoh resigned as UDP vice president and general secretary in May 2026
  • Will formally join BJP at party's state office in Shillong on September 12
  • Decision follows Saturday meeting with supporters and years of BJP overtures

A Calculated Move

Mawthoh emphasized this wasn't a rushed decision. The former legislator revealed that BJP had been approaching him since 2020-21, but he wanted to make what he called a "very conscious" political choice. This careful timing suggests strategic calculation rather than impulsive party-hopping.

"I was approached by the BJP earlier as well. In fact, feelers were coming since 2020-21, but I did not want to rush as a political decision should be very conscious," he said.

Political Ripples in Meghalaya

The move sends ripples through Meghalaya's political circles, where speculation has been building about larger defections. Rumors suggest up to nine of UDP's twelve MLAs might eventually follow Mawthoh's path to the BJP ahead of the 2028 assembly elections. This could dramatically reshape the state's power dynamics.

What Comes Next

All eyes now turn to September 12, when Mawthoh's formal induction will occur at the BJP's state office in Shillong. The event will likely be watched closely not just by local politicians but by national observers looking for signs of the BJP's expanding influence in India's northeastern states.