SHILLONG: The polling stations in some of urban area in Shillong witnessed low turnout with people coming out to vote in small numbers.
Surprisingly, Motphran area wore deserted look with very less vehicular movement and shops were also closed. Taxis that ferry passengers to Mawlai, Jaiaw, were absent.
Usually, abuzz with activities as it is thronged by thousands of people every day, the situation in Motphran on the day of the election speaks a different story.
The state government declared a holiday but did not issue any direction for closing down of shops or restrict vehicular movement.
A visit to some of the polling stations found short queues with mostly women coming out to cast their vote while the numbers of male voters were very less. In some of the polling stations, the men’s section was found almost vacant in the afternoon.
On the other hand, rain also played spoil sport deterring people to leave the comfort of their homes and vote.
In comparison to the general election last year, many areas of the state witnessed enthusiasm from the people.
The scene in Mawlai and Lower Mawprem was different as people flocked the polling stations.
Commissioner and Secretary of District Council Affairs (DCA) department, Tining Dkhar told reporters the inclement weather did not deter people from coming out to vote.
Asked about the low turnout, he admitted there was not much of awareness campaign for the Council polls.
He said the urban mood, by practice, is not like the one prevailing in rural areas where people come out. He commented that urban voters should too come out.
