From home to house: CM Conrad Sangma faces tough questions from MLA wife in Meghalaya Assembly

A rare husband-wife exchange enlivened proceedings in the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly on Tuesday as NPP MLA from Ampati, Mebatha Ch. Sangma, questioned Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma over delays in setting up livestock education institutions proposed by the state government.

Raising the matter during Question Hour, the MLA sought clarity on the progress of a veterinary college, two fisheries colleges and a dairy college that were approved by the cabinet in 2022 and also featured in the governor’s address.

In response, the Chief Minister—who also holds the livestock portfolio—assured the House that the institutions are being prioritised, citing the urgent need to strengthen livestock-related education in a state where a large section of the population is dependent on the sector.

“These were the three colleges which we have decided because of the urgent need, keeping in mind that a large population of the state is engaged in livestock rearing,” he said.

Addressing concerns over staffing, Sangma acknowledged a shortage of veterinary professionals and said steps are being taken to fill vacancies at the earliest, adding that adequate manpower will be ensured before the institutions are made operational.

On the delay in preparing detailed project reports (DPRs), the Chief Minister said the process took time due to land identification and planning requirements. Around 800 acres have been identified at Kyrdemkulai in Ri-Bhoi district for the proposed veterinary college, which is estimated to cost about ₹834 crore and include 19 departments.

He also admitted that financial requirements are substantial but assured members that efforts are underway to fast-track the project.

The exchange marked one of the few occasions where a legislator publicly engaged her husband during Assembly proceedings, adding a personal dimension to an otherwise policy-focused debate.