Shillong, Feb 18: Meghalaya government today clarified that electioneering must remain within designated constituency boundaries.

“No campaigning can take place outside the notified constituency boundaries. Polling stations and villages under KHADC and JHADC have been officially listed, with only minor amendments during delimitation. Everything happens within these boundaries,” Commissioner & Secretary in-charge of the District Council Affairs (DCA) Department, Cyril Diengdoh said.

Diengdoh’s statement came as a media report had alleged that a candidate contesting the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC) elections in Meghalaya has been campaigning inside Assam’s territory. The report claims the candidate, along with supporters, traveled 25 kilometers into West Karbi Anglong district and campaigned in the disputed areas of Makro and Umkhremi along the Assam-Meghalaya border. The JHADC elections are scheduled for February 21.

On the alleged cross-border campaigning, Diengdoh stated that the matter requires verification. “I have not come across this report, so I cannot confirm its accuracy. If the campaigning took place in Mukroh, there is no issue as it is well within Meghalaya. However, we will seek a report to verify the claims,” he added.

He also emphasized that election norms require candidates to obtain prior permission from the returning officer and Deputy Commissioner for public meetings, rallies, or processions. “The DCs are fully aware of jurisdictional limits and permissions granted. If campaigning happens, it must follow the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and be approved through the proper process,” he said.

Election preparations are progressing, with multiple reviews conducted with Deputy Commissioners. In East Khasi Hills, a major district in the KHADC polls, a recent review by the Chief Secretary at ISBT Shillong confirmed that polling material dispatch, receipt, and counting arrangements are in place. ISBT Shillong will serve as the main counting center, except for Sohra and Pynursla subdivisions, where polling-related activities will be managed locally.

A detailed breakdown of polling stations has been provided, highlighting sensitive and vulnerable locations:

– KHADC: 1,669 polling stations (88 vulnerable, 16 critical, 25 sensitive)
– JHADC: 477 polling stations (95 vulnerable)
– District-wise classifications:
– Sohra Civil Subdivision: 95 polling stations (3 sensitive)
– Eastern & West Khasi Hills: 141 polling stations (10 sensitive)
– Pynursla: 103 polling stations (all non-sensitive)
– Ri-Bhoi: 432 polling stations (14 critical, 16 vulnerable)
– East Khasi Hills: 733 polling stations (31 vulnerable, 1 critical)
– Nongstoin: 146 polling stations (1 critical, 28 vulnerable)
– Mawkyrwat: 120 polling stations (25 sensitive)
– West Jaintia Hills (excluding Amlarem): 241 polling stations (47 vulnerable)
– East Jaintia Hills: 168 polling stations (40 vulnerable)
– Amlarem: 68 polling stations (8 vulnerable)

Security forces have been deployed across all critical and vulnerable polling stations. Authorities have assured that district-wise deployment is being handled in coordination with local police and security agencies. While specific figures on border security deployment are pending, officials confirm that adequate forces are in place to address any potential concerns.

The Meghalaya government has allocated over ₹22 crore for election logistics, security, and overall poll management. With heightened surveillance and strict enforcement of election guidelines, authorities are working to ensure a fair and peaceful electoral process.

Also Read: Conrad ask voters to reject parties trying to communalise council polls

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