Meghalaya CM breaks silence over attending R-Day celebrations

Shillong: After several criticisms over the Meghalaya Chief Minister violating Covid-19 protocol by attending the Republic Day celebration on Wednesday, CM Conrad K Sangma denied violating the protocol and said that he has always been responsible.

Sangma on Thursday said he was disheartened to see people picking up petty issues while the state is talking of important aspects like border issue, statehood and others.

“I, as a CM, have got huge responsibilities and work to do, and those are the works that needs to be done. But I’ve been very clear; I’ve always followed protocols, I’ve been somebody who is always careful,” stated the chief minister.

Mentioning that on 21st January, knowing that he was not feeling well and didn’t test positive for Covid as yet, he decided not to attend the statehood programme.

“If I really wanted to go I could have tested later on and taken advantage of the situation but I did not. So, therefore, for anybody to question my integrity and commitment is quite sad, and I think those people questioning me have nothing better to do,” said Sangma.

Adding that people are missing the larger picture, the chief minister once again reiterated his stand that he has always been responsible and did not violate the protocol.

It maybe mentioned that the chief minister had taken to social media to share the news that he had tested positive for COVID-19 on January 21. Similarly, Meghalaya Governor Satya Pal Malik on Tuesday tweeted that he tested positive for COVID-19 and will not be able to attend the Republic Day celebrations. 

Meanwhile, another picture shared on Thursday of the chief minister and Governor has raised eyebrows. In the picture, the CM was seen accepting a birthday gift from the Governor at Raj Bhavan. Questions have once again been raised about the two violating Covid-19 protocol.

Also read: Assam: 11 Vaishnavite sattras to be handed over to Meghalaya