SHILLONG: The 36-hour bandh called by the banned militant outfit Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) had no impact on the electors who came out in large numbers to exercise their franchise in Khasi-Jaintia Hills.
Even before polling began at 7 am, voters including women and first timers were seen proceeding towards the polling stations to cast their votes.
However, shops and other establishments remained closed, and less numbers of vehicles were seen plying on the streets.
According to reports, there was 100 per cent turnout of voters in Umrynjah under Mawlai constituency in East Khasi Hills District.
Many voters currently residing in Shillong, travelled to their respective villages like Mairang, Mawkyrwat, Amlarem and Pynursla, among others, to cast their votes.
It has been informed that some candidates made arrangements for vehicles to enable their supporters residing in Shillong to go and their cast their votes in their respective home place.
Meanwhile, commenting on the bandh called by the HNLC, Congress candidate from East Shillong, Ampareen Lyngdoh, stated that certain political forces were behind the outfit’s election boycott call.