NONGPOH:
Ri Bhoi district administration has tightened security in Block II for safety and fair participation of voters in the February 27 assembly election.
The action came after the District Election Officer (DEO) received information that a legislator from West Karbi Anglong district of Assam in a speech allegedly said that voters from Block II area will not be allowed to cast votes during the Meghalaya assembly election.
The Chief Election Officer and Chief Secretary of Meghalaya have also been briefed on the matter, and the latter is in contact with the Chief Secretary and Chief Election Officer of Assam.
Ri Bhoi district Deputy Commissioner Arpit Upadhyay informed the media that the deputy commissioner and superintendent of police of West Karbi Anglong district have summoned the legislator concerned.
Ri Bhoi DEO has asked the legislator to refrain from making statements that contravene the Representation of the People Act, 1951. Further, the DEO has informed that the Supreme Court ruling pertaining to polling stations in border areas should be adhered to by ensuring status quo and full exercise of franchise by eligible and registered voters.
Under the circumstances, the DEO, in the presence of the district administrations of Ri Bhoi and West Karbi Anglong, held a meeting with the locals and headmen of border areas, and their views were taken into consideration.
To avoid further instability, spread of false information and any kind of disturbance, the district administration, DEO and superintendent of police will take immediate measures to ensure security, including the deployment of state police and Central Armed Police Forces.
“No voters would be left behind,” the DEO assured, adding that action will be taken against any individual or party that flouts the code of conduct for free and fair election.