Shillong, Mar 31: With both the NCP-led Meghalaya Progressive Alliance (MPA) and the Congress staking claim to form government in the state, Governor R S Mooshahary on Tuesday said he was exploring legal aspects before taking a final decision.
"There are cases pending in the court. I will have to look into legal aspects before taking a decision," Mr. Mooshahary said, referring to a petition in Guwahati High Court, challenging his suspension of five 'rebel' MLAs and another one filed by MPA in the Supreme Court against imposition of President's rule in the state.
Confirming that both the MPA and the Congress have made separate claims, he said, "Whosoever has the clear majority will be called to form the government."
His comments came barely an hour after the Congress again put forth their claim to form the government.
13 MLAs of the Congress led by senior leader and MLA R C Laloo called on the Governor and handed over a letter claiming support of 31 MLAs in the 60-member state assembly.
"We asked his excellency to consider inviting us to form the government. As the High Court has restored voting rights of the five MLAs, it is clear that we have the majority," Mr. Laloo claimed.
The MPA had won the March 17 trust vote despite two independents and five of its MLAs switching sides. However, the Assembly was put into "suspended animation" by the Centre.