SHILLONG: Even though the public defied the 36-hour bandh called by the proscribed HNLC to turn out in large numbers to cast their ballots, some local residents staying outside the State were affected by the boycott.
The sudden call of bandh by the HNLC three days ahead of the polls meant that State’s voters travelling from outside could not exercise their franchise due to unavailability of transport services.
A citizen from Shillong who is currently residing in Siliguri, West Bengal made all attempts to reach the city to cast her vote despite the bandh. However, she could not manage a vehicle from Guwahati to travel to Shillong on Friday.
This was the first time that the banned outfit had called for a bandh to boycott elections in the State.
The similar problem was also faced by many other residents of the State who are staying in different parts of the country and wanted to visit the state to cast their vote.
Another city resident who is currently in Bangalore said that she was all set to visit the state but the sudden announcement of bandh put a halt to the plans.
The problem was also faced by the local residents who are staying in far-flung areas of the state.
