Shillong, Jan. 16: The NCP, which is looking forward to making a “powerful debut” in Meghalaya, has been rattled by a sudden exodus, spearheaded by none other than K.K. Sangma — P.A. Sangma’s cousin and pointman in the launchpad district of West Garo Hills.

The desertion, by senior and key members in quick succession, has virtually caused the party’s promising “build-up” to fizzle out ahead of next month’s Assembly polls.

NCP general secretary P.A. Sangma, who is leading a no-holds-barred campaign, had little inkling of the shape of things to come in the home district, West Garo Hills. His cousin, who is the district general secretary of the NCP, led the exodus of over 3,000 workers, which threatens to undo “all the work done so far”.

In Shillong, 20 members, including treasurer Arup Das of the Umpling unit, have joined the BJP.

Chief minister F.A. Khonglam’s delay in applying for a party ticket from Cherrapunjee has only compounded matters. There are rumours pointing to a widening rift between the NCP and the chief minister, who, sources said, might eventually contest as an Independent.

“Just when everything seemed right, such a thing is unfortunate,” party general secretary Fearless Warjri said. The NCP is expected to review the latest development in an emergent meeting.

The desertion has left P.A. Sangma particularly unhappy, where he was hoping to spring some major surprises against the Congress, especially in the Garo Hills.

According to sources, infighting is a major cause behind the desertion.

NCP state president and Rajya Sabha MP Robert Kharshiing had recently undertaken an intense tour of Jaintia Hills, and claimed that the party had been able to make inroads in many districts.

K.K. Sangma assigned his resignation to “sharp and unbridgeable differences with the party high command”. He said about 3,000 members, who were the “real supporters”, have also resigned.

The developments in Tura came at a time when P.A. Sangma was camping there. He was not available for comment but sources said the former Lok Sabha Speaker was desperately exploring all avenues for a “patch up”.

Despite the setback, the NCP is going all out to woo some sitting MLAs from the Meghalaya Democratic Party as well as a few Independents. Sources said the NCP today held discussions with the legislator from Mairang and primary education minister Rasor Rani.