Tura, Nov 2 : The NPP has risen like a phoenix in the muslim dominated plains of Garo Hills which was once the support base of the Congress, particularly its erstwhile leader Dr. Mukul Sangma, defeating the grand old party by a clear majority in the by-polls which had its results declared on Tuesday.

Chief minister Conrad K Sangma has termed the dramatic turnaround for the NPP as a message that it pays to work for development.

“From a mere 450 votes in 2013 in Rajabala, NPP has now secured over 11,000 votes in this election. It is a very good response from the people in support for our pro development work being undertaken in the state. The fact that all three by-election seats in the state went to our ruling MDA government speaks immensely of the kind of message people are sending, which is for development,” said the chief minister.

On the shock defeat of the Congress in its own bastion and the success of the NPP, the chief minister said that the main impact felt was about how people are yearning for development.

“People have felt the development work, the grassroot people have realized this NPP government is working and people’s perception has been positive towards this government, that was the turning point. No matter how many campaigns or big meetings one holds, it is ultimately the individual vote that matters. Only when you are able to touch the lives of the people and make a difference in their lives, then only they will vote,” he said.

Conrad Sangma said that the widespread support and votes for the NPP in both the hills and plains gave a clear indication that people are welcoming the party into their lives which is a positive result for the NPP.