Shillong (Meghalaya), May 7: DRL Nonglait, President of the Khasi Authors’ Society, is set to contest the upcoming Shillong Parliamentary by poll on an NPP ticket, party sources confirmed.
The National People’s Party has picked the noted author and academic as its candidate for the prestigious Lok Sabha seat, signaling a cultural-intellectual pivot in its campaign strategy. An official announcement is expected this week after the party’s state election committee meets at Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma’s residence.
Nonglait, who heads the state’s premier literary body, has been a prominent voice on Khasi language, literature and identity. His entry marks NPP’s bid to broaden its base among urban voters, youth, and the intelligentsia ahead of the high-stakes contest.
Party insiders said Nonglait’s candidature aligns with the NPP’s push to project “soft power” and cultural stewardship in Khasi Hills. “He brings credibility beyond politics. Education, language and youth are central to our agenda,” a senior NPP leader said, requesting anonymity.
The Shillong seat fell vacant after the sitting MP. Ricky Syngkon passed away due to a cardiac attack on. Feb 19 last. The by poll is seen as a prestige battle ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections, with the Congress, VPP and UDP also preparing to field strong contenders.
Sources close to him said he will resign from the Khasi Authors’ Society before filing nomination to avoid conflict of interest.
The Election Commission is expected to notify the by poll schedule next week.
