Meghalaya, often referred to as the "Abode of Clouds," is a state nestled in the northeastern part of India, known for its lush green landscapes, rich cultural diversity, and vibrant traditions. Since its inception as a separate state on January 21, 1972, Meghalaya has witnessed a series of Chief Ministers who have played pivotal roles in steering the state through various challenges and developments.
Election of Chief Minister
The Chief Minister of Meghalaya is a crucial political figure responsible for the executive governance of the state. The election of the Chief Minister follows the democratic process where members of the Legislative Assembly, the elected representatives of the people, choose their leader. The Governor of the state, appointed by the President of India, invites the leader of the majority party or coalition to form the government. The Chief Minister then assumes office and begins the task of leading the state toward progress and prosperity.
Roles and Responsibilities of the Chief Minister
The Chief Minister of Meghalaya shoulders a multitude of responsibilities, ranging from policy formulation to administrative decision-making. The chief executive is entrusted with maintaining law and order, implementing government policies, and overseeing the functioning of various departments. Additionally, the Chief Minister represents the state at the national level, fostering collaboration with the central government for the overall development of Meghalaya.
President"s rule in Meghalaya
President`s rule was imposed in Meghalaya twice in its history. The first instance occurred from October 11, 1991, to February 5, 1992, following political instability. The second instance took place between March 19, 2009, and May 12, 2009, in response to a political crisis. During these periods, the state`s governance was temporarily placed under the direct control of the President of India, suspending the elected government. President`s rule serves as a constitutional provision to restore order and stability in states facing severe political turmoil or an inability to form a stable government.
List of Chief Ministers of Meghalaya
The table below provides a comprehensive list of the Chief Ministers of Meghalaya since its inception, detailing their respective tenures and political affiliations.
| Chief Ministers | Tenure | Political Party |
| Williamson A. Sangma | 1970 – 1976 | All Party Hill Leaders Conference |
| Williamson A. Sangma(1st General Election) | 1976 – 1978 | Indian National Congress |
| Darwin Diengdoh Pugh | 1978 – 1979 | All Party Hill Leaders Conference |
| B. B. Lyngdoh | 1979 – 1981 | All Party Hill Leaders Conference |
| Williamson A. Sangma | 1981 - 1983 | Indian National Congress |
| B. B. Lyngdoh | 1983 – 1983 (29 days) | All Party Hill Leaders Conference |
| Williamson A. Sangma | 1983 – 1988 | Indian National Congress |
| P. A. Sangma | 1988 – 1990 | Indian National Congress |
| B. B. Lyngdoh | 1990 – 1991 | Hill People`s Union |
| D. D. Lapang | 1992 – 1993 | Indian National Congress |
| S. C. Marak | 1993 – 1998 | Indian National Congress |
| B. B. Lyngdoh | 1998 – 2000 | United Democratic Party |
| E. K. Mawlong | 2000 – 2001 | United Democratic Party |
| Flinder Anderson Khonglam | 2001 – 2003 | Independent |
| D. D. Lapang | 2003 – 2006 | Indian National Congress |
| J. Dringbell Rymbai | 2006 – 2007 | Indian National Congress |
| D. D. Lapang | 2007 – 2008 | Indian National Congress |
| Donkupar Roy | 2008 – 2009 | United Democratic Party |
| D. D. Lapang | 2009 – 2010 | Indian National Congress |
| Mukul Sangma | 2010 – 2018 | Indian National Congress |
| Conrad Sangma | 2018 – present (Incumbent) | National People`s Party |
