Eight MLAs from the United Democratic Party (UDP) have resigned from the party and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), marking a significant political development in Meghalaya.

The MLAs who joined the BJP are Lahkmen Rymbui, Pius Marwein, Kyrmen Shylla, Mayralborn Syiem, Matthew Kurbah, Ollan Singh Suin, Balajied Kupar Synrem, and Synshar Lyngdoh Thabah.

Following their switch, the BJP's strength in the 60-member Meghalaya Legislative Assembly has increased from 2 to 10. The UDP's strength has declined from 12 to 4 MLAs.

The move came after the MLAs sought assurances on key issues, including the resumption of coal mining in Meghalaya and the inclusion of the Khasi language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju attributed the development to the development initiatives undertaken by the BJP-led government in the Northeast over the past 12 years under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The exit of eight MLAs has significantly reduced the UDP's numerical strength within Meghalaya's ruling coalition.