Shella by-poll: Meeting Reviews Preparations at Office of Sub-Divisional Officer

A Correspondent

SHILLONG: A review meeting on poll preparedness for the by-election to the Shella Assembly constituency was held on Wednesday at the office of Sub-Divisional Officer (Election), Sohra Civil Sub-Division.

East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Matsiewdor War Nongbri reviewed the preparedness on all fronts with regards to the by-election.

Various issues were discussed ranging from location of remote polling stations, connectivity issues and security concerns.

Highlighting the problem of connectivity and accessibility which some of the polling stations could face, Nongbri stressed on the need of having a backup mechanism in order to ensure smooth conduct of the election process, especially on the day of polling. The DC also directed all the officials engaged in the election process to follow the procedures as per the guidelines of the Election Commission of India.

L Kynjing, who is also the Returning Officer for the Shella Assembly constituency, gave a brief presentation on the overall election preparedness for the by- poll, highlighting the various sensitive and critical polling stations and the challenges faced by the constituency and the various remedial measures which they have adopted to tackle the same.

Later, East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police, Claudia A Lyngwa briefed the gathering on the security arrangement which they are making for the by-poll.

Lyngwa said that the police are geared up for the poll and all necessary precaution and vigil will be maintained in the constituency.

Himanshu Kumar Rai, General Observer for the by-election said that so far he is satisfied with the overall preparedness and he is hopeful for a smooth and fair election.

The meeting which was attended by Zonal Magistrates, Sector Officers, police officials and other election officials. Others present at the meeting were Francis Kharshiing, IPS, DIG (CID), Shillong, and Rishabh Gupta, Expenditure Observer.

Shella will go for by-election on October 21 after sitting legislator Dr Donkupar Roy of the United Democratic Party (UDP) died on July 28. The candidates in the fray include, son of late Dr Roy, Balajiedkupar Synrem (UDP), Grace Mary Kharpuri, the lone woman candidate who is contesting as an Independent, Congress candidate Batyngshaiñ Ryngnga, People’s Democratic Party candidate, Mosjo Rockfeller Wanswet, Independent nominee, Komen Laitmon and BJP candidate, Joshua Warjri.

Also Read: Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong bats for Synrem in Shella

Also Watch: Watch Wedding Anniversary of Two Trees in Guwahati