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MDA Govt talks tough on ally BJP�s allegations

By STAFF Correspondent

SHILLONG, Oct 16 - In a dramatic development, the BJP � an ally of the NPP-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) Government � was today asked to leave the coalition if it does not stop criticising the State Government �unreasonably�.

�The BJP criticises the Government, but continues to work with it. If you (BJP) are not comfortable, you are free to leave the MDA Government,� Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong said.

The BJP has raised several serious allegations against the State Government in the recent days, including illegal coal mining and transportation. The party alleged that a cartel is carrying out these illegal activities and sought a CBI probe.

Although the party has levelled allegations through the media, its two MLAs � Sanbor Shullai and AL Hek � have kept mum on this. Hek holds Health and other important portfolios in the State Cabinet.

The BJP has also raised the issue of corruption in the Garo Hills Autonomous Council and sought a probe into the functioning of the autonomous councils.

Tynsong said that the BJP, instead of raising the issues before the Government, is approaching the media and making statements without any ground. He said that if anyone has any evidence about the alleged illegal coal mining and transportation, they should furnish it before the Government.

Mentioning that the People�s Democratic Front has also raised concern over the alleged illegal coal mining and transportation, but it did it before the Chief Minister, Tynsong said that the BJP can also do the same.

He said that the MDA has a coordination committee in which State presidents of the coalition partners and one MLA are members. Tynsong said that any issue could be raised in the committee.

Ruling out a CBI probe into the allegations levelled by the BJP, Tynsong said that anyone can level allegations unsubstantially, but that does not mean that the CBI would be called in.

The Deputy Chief Minister reiterated that the Government is against any illegal activity and has strictly asked the deputy commissioners and SPs to check illegal coal mining and transportation, if any.

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