SHILLONG: The Deputy Commissioner and Returning Officer, 2-Tura (ST) Parliamentary Constituency, Pravin Bakshi on Wednesday convened a meeting with senior citizens, church elders, NGOs, civil society institutions and youth organizations at Circuit House, Tura.
Present at the meeting, Bishop of Tura, Rev. Andrew R Marak, said that the coming Sunday will be observed as a day of prayer for peaceful elections while Fr Viju informed that the community has been educated on the subject within the parameters laid down by the election commission. He also added that the students in schools and colleges have been sensitized to vote and also motivate their parents to vote. However he felt that the district administration needs to create more awareness on voting without fear especially in rural areas where muscle power is prevalent.
Angela W Ingty, member, State Commission for Women stated that capable women officers should be used for election duties but the district administration should ensure their safety and well-being. She also urged the women electorates to come out and vote.
SVEEP Icon, S K Sangma said that mobile vigilance teams need to be more alert to the issue of money play that if found in the outskirts of the town. He appealed to everyone to come out in large numbers and vote by conscience.
The meeting saw the animated participation of all issuing a joint statement for ethical voting.