By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: Church leaders in Meghalaya have urged the Election Commission to defer the election date by saying that those who are on duty during polling on February 23, which is a Saturday, would not able to take part in church services the next day (Sunday).
In a letter addressed to Chief Election Commissioner VS Sampath on Monday, Rev. Dr. PBM Basaiawmoit said that conducting of polling on a Saturday means that election officials will have to travel back on Sunday and even if they are to return on the same night, being a hill state, travel is not that easy and comfortable.
Basaiawmoit pointed out that majority of the roads are in a dilapidated condition which will be a physical strain to attend services on Sunday which is a day of worship for Christians not only in Meghalaya but across the whole world.
Basaiwmoit said that the Garo Baptist Convention has also sent a separate letter to the Election Commission in the regard.
“Therefore, in the best interest of voters, election officials and activities of the Christian churches in the State, we earnestly urge you and the whole Commission to either advance the poll date to February 21 or postpone the same to February 26 or 27,” Basaiwmoit added.
According to Basaiwmoit, as the term of House expires on March 10, there is room to make adjustments.