Election Commission allots symbols to candidates
SHILLONG: With no candidate withdrawing their nominations on the last day on Wednesday, the Shillong Lok Sabha seat is now set for an eight-cornered contest on April 9 while in Tura there will be a straight fight.
Returning Officer for Shillong parliamentary constituency, Sanjay Goyal, confirmed on Wednesday that there was no withdrawal of nominations.
Sitting Congress MP from Shillong, Vincent H Pala, will now have to defend his seat against seven contenders including UDP working president Paul Lyngdoh, BJP candidate Shibun Lyngdoh, AAP candidate Amerington Kharshiing, CPI candidate Richard Shabong and three Independents including Rev. PBM Basaiawmoit, Denis Siangshai and Ivoryna Shylla.
In Tura veteran politician Purno A Sangma is facing a direct fight against rookie Congress candidate Daryl William Cheran Momin.
On Wednesday the Election Commission allotted symbols to all the ten candidates contesting in the two Lok Sabha constituencies in Meghalaya, officials said.
Recognized national parties like Congress, BJP and CPI were allotted their regular symbols.
UDP candidate Paul Lyngdoh was allotted the drum symbol, while the AAP candidate was allotted the broom, its usual symbol.
Independent candidate Denis Siangshai was allotted the symbol of a basket containing fruits, Ivoryna Shylla was allotted the symbol of television while Rev. PBM Basaiawmoit was allotted the symbol of candles.
NPP chief Purno A Sangma was awarded the book, which is the party’s symbol.
Electioneering is yet to pick up pace in the State with candidates maintaining a low profile.
The Election department, however, seems to be in hyperactive mode with efforts being made to woo voters to participate in the election process, by way of organizing kite flying competition and graffiti drawings.
The office of the CEO recently released a music video featuring the Shillong Chamber Choir to motivate voters.
General and elections observers have also been appointed to keep a tab on the activities of the party candidates. Several directives have also been issued with regards to maintenance of law and order. Licensed holders of guns have been asked to deposit their arms with the police in view of the Lok Sabha elections.