Shillong, February 17: The Voice of the People’s Party (VPP) on Monday submitted a list of 77 polling stations across 17 constituencies in East and West Jaintia Hills District, urging government authorities to reinforce security to prevent potential violence during the upcoming elections.
In a letter addressed to the District Election Officers (DEOs) of both districts, VPP General Secretary and Shillong MP Dr. Ricky AJ Syngkon expressed concerns about possible disruptions. “According to the information I have received, these polling stations and their constituencies listed below are considered at risk of violence,” he stated.
Dr. Syngkon requested authorities to ensure a strong security presence at these locations to safeguard the voting process. “I request you to maintain strong security to prevent any group from disrupting the smooth counting of voters and to prevent any lockdown of polling booths or any activities that can disrupt the counting of votes,” he emphasized.
The areas Identified Polling Stations at Risk in East Jaintia Hills, The VPP listed 21 polling stations in seven constituencies that require heightened security measures. These include Bawtaw-Lakadong Constituency: Bataw-A (male), Bataw-B (female), and Lakadong Ummate. Narpuh Constituency: Sonapyrdi, Ratacherra A & B, Waungskur, Moolamatnoh, and Moolamanoh. Sumer Constituency: Jalaphet Sumer (A & B). Rymbai-Khiehriat Constituency: Khliehriat East.
Were as in West Jaintia Hills, a total of 34 polling stations in nine constituencies were flagged for security concerns are Nartiang-Wahiajer Constituency that is Mukhla A (male), Mukhla B, Mukhla Mission, and Wahiakhajer A. Muthlong-Sohkymphor Constituency: Byrwai A & B, Pasyih A & B, Thadmuthlong A & B, and Thadmuthlong Phramer.
Shilliang Myntang Constituency: Lathumphu A & B. Barato-Moodummai-Nongkhrh Constituency: Mukhroh A & B. Nangbah-Mihmyntdu Constituency: Sabah Muswang. Mynsngad-Nongkaid Constituency: Mynsngat (male), Mynsngat (female), Mynsngat-Rakhwi, Namdong (male), and Namdong (female). Mookaiaw Constituency: Mookaiaw A, Mookaiaw B, and Mookaiaw D.
Additionally, the VPP highlighted 12 polling stations in the Shangpung Constituency as having the highest risk of violence. Authorities are urged to take immediate measures to ensure peace and security in these locations.
With the elections approaching, the VPP has called for proactive measures from law enforcement agencies to safeguard the democratic process and ensure a free, fair, and peaceful election in both districts. The response from the government authorities is awaited as security preparations intensify.
