Agatha Sangma (pictured) has the distinction of being the youngest Member of Parliament and is a Minister of State for Rural Development in the UPA government. Elected from the Tura constituency from the North Eastern state of Meghalaya, the Nationalist Congress Party MP is well aware of the rigmaroles of political life having seen her father, former speaker of Lok Sabha, P.A. Sangma go through the grind. A lawyer, environmentalist and an amateur photographer, Agatha speaks to Bar & Bench on law school, entry of foreign law firms and the problems faced by young girls from the North East. 

How does it feel to hold an important portfolio of the Minister of State for Rural Development for the Government of one of the world’s largest democracies?

It is indeed a very exciting place to be in, but at the same time I realize the huge responsibility and I am very humbled to be given this opportunity at this age and I can only say that I intend to deliver to the best of my capacity.

Your experiences in FoxMandal Little?

I have very fond memories of working in FoxMandal Little. I was in the litigation team which was much smaller than the corporate side so I got to concentrate on few key areas like debt recovery and consumer grievances. Also one gets to be like a close knit family with their partners, seniors and co- associates. I must say it is these experiences in life that shape you and can take you a long way.

Why did you go to law school? Was law school seen as a stepping stone to politics?

My father was a lawyer, he told me “Someone has to use these law books of mine” so I said I will. It was that simple. My first preference was to become a veterinary doctor, but that didn’t happen. I ended up doing Masters in Environmental Management. I think all of it has been very useful in equipping me to deal with my current assignment and yes law definitely gives you a better understanding of politics and as a legislator it is crucial to understand the legal language.

How did you deal with your transition from a lawyer to a politician?

Take it one day at a time. Honestly, I have not gone through any makeover or anything, it’s just embracing your work and giving it your best. The trick is you have to enjoy and believe in what you are doing, and I am and I do.

Did the vacating of the seat by your father, P.A. Sangma, put a pressure on you to result in a life changing decision?

I think it definitely speed up the process of my entering politics. My contesting the elections was not a decision I made alone but collectively with the party and with my family.

What did you feel, when you entered the Parliament for the first time as a Minister?

I cannot sum up in one word how I felt, but it was a mix of many emotions including excitement, gratefulness, a sense of responsibility and an urge to do things that mattered. I think I feel deeply privileged to be given this opportunity and I have much to thank  the Hon’ble Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, UPA Chairperson Mrs Gandhi, my party President Shri Sharad Pawar and of course my father Mr. P.A. Sangma who gave me this opportunity.

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