From Our Correspondent
JOWAI: In a new twist to the ban on entry of ‘outsiders’, imposed by several Dorbar Shnong in their villages in Jaintia Hills, some of them have declared open support to candidates, violating the election norms.
After announcing the ban on outsiders, “to maintain peace and ensure fair voting”, a few Dorbar Shnong have also issued press statements declaring support of the voters to their favourite candidates.
“The Dorbar Shnong has decided to extend its full support to Justine Dkhar,” said Livingstione Phawa, the Rangbah Shnong of Dkhiah West village, under Khliehriat constituency.
In another statement, the Rangbah Shnong of Sutnga village under Sutnga-Saipung constituency said, “The Dorbar Shnong has unanimously resolved to extend full support to Independent candidate Hopeful Bamon.”
The Elaka Dorbar of Sutnga has also decided to support the Independent candidate, according to a complaint lodged by the Congress candidate, Shitlang Pale, with the district election officer.
“The Dollois can never take part in the election process directly or indirectly as it is a violation of the Appointment and Succession of Headman and Elaka Chief Act of the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC),” Pale, a sitting MLA, said in his complaint.
The open support of the Dorbar Shnong have laid bare ulterior motive behind the ban on outsiders.
Sources claimed the bans were influenced by some candidates who did not want their rival candidates or their supporters to lure away the voters of those villages.
Meanwhile, the district election officer (DEO) of East Jaintia Hills district said a headman can hold meetings to discuss issues related to the election, but he cannot ask any voter of the village to cast the vote in favour of any candidate.
“Instruction have been issued to the Dorbar Shnong to prevent distribution of money and supply of liquor in their villages,” Abhishek Bhagotia, the DEO, said.