Shillong: Meghalaya witnessed a rise in the overall voter turnout in comparison to the Lok Sabha Elections held in 2019. The tentative figure as of Friday evening stands at 74.19%, expected to rise further.
In 2019, both constituencies recorded a total voter turnout of 71.43%. Specifically, the Shillong Parliamentary seat saw 65.48% voting, while the Tura seat recorded 81.38% polling. However, this year, the voter turnout stands at 71.91% for the Shillong seat and 78.06% for Tura.
During a Friday evening press briefing, Meghalaya Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) BDR Tiwari assured that the elections were conducted peacefully throughout the state.
Tiwari addressed concerns regarding the voting machines, mentioning that during the mock poll, 26 Ballot Units (BU), 32 Control Units (CU), and 64 VVPATs were replaced. On polling day, 21 BUs, 22 CUs, and 55 VVPATs were replaced, all within the stipulated time. Tiwari emphasized that there were no reports of law and order issues or violence at any polling station.
Regarding reported violations, Tiwari stated that they would be dealt with according to the rules. Instances of voters taking pictures of their ballots or wearing political party flags inside polling stations were observed.
After the election, the 13 strong rooms (12 in District headquarters and 1 in Sohra) would continue to be monitored by the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), with counting taking place in 13 counting centers.
Tiwari also noted that the model code of conduct would remain in force until all phases of the elections are completed nationwide. Since its implementation, seizures worth Rs. 11 crore 10 lakh 85 thousand 948 have been made, including cash and liquor.
Dear Reader,
Every day, our team at EastMojo travels through rain, rough roads, and remote hills to bring you stories that matter – stories from your town, your people, your Northeast.
We do this because we believe in truthful, independent journalism. No big corporate backing, no government pressure – just honest reporting by local journalists who live and breathe the same air you do.
But to keep doing this work, we need you. Your small contribution helps us pay our reporters fairly, reach places others ignore, and keep asking the tough questions.
If you believe the Northeast deserves its own fearless voice, stand with us.
Support independent journalism. Be a Member.
Thank you,
Karma Paljor
Editor-in-Chief, eastmojo.com
When asked about the seizures, Tiwari explained that depending on several factors, a screening committee would evaluate the seized items.
Sector in-charge Eastern Range Meghalaya, Sunil Kumar Savita, assured the media that proper security arrangements were in place and no problems were reported.
Also Read | Meghalaya: Ampareen Lyngdoh casts vote, confident of victory