Another minister quits in Meghalaya, CM seeks vote on March 17

Shillong (PTI): Yet another minister on Thursday quit the beleaguered Meghalaya Progressive Alliance (MPA) government which has lost majority in the 60-member house, as Chief Minister Donkupar Roy announced that he would seek a vote of confidence in the state assembly on March 17.

Mr. Roy announced the date for vote of confidence after meeting Governor Meghalaya R S Mooshahary. Earlier in the day, Health and Family Welfare Minister, Advisor Pariong, belonging to coalition ally Hill State Peoples Democratic Party (HSPDP), resigned from the government.

The ruling coalition was reduced to 30 members yesterday after Urban Affairs minister, Paul Lyngdoh, belonging to the Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM) withdrew support. Mr. Pariong's 'disappearance' was preceded on March 9 by the withdrawal of support to the MPA by two Independents, Limison Sangma and Ismail R Marak.

However, the chief minister claimed that Pariong resigned only from the cabinet and not from the MPA. Mr. Pariong, who sent his resignation to the chief minister by a messenger was reported missing since last night by his party.