Shillong/Kohima, Feb 27:Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday urged the people of Meghalaya and Nagaland to cast their votes in record numbers in the elections to the state Assemblies in the two northeastern states.
Taking to Twitter, the Prime Minister said: “Urging the people of Meghalaya and Nagaland, particularly the young and first time voters, to vote in record numbers today.”
In a series of tweets, Shah said: “While Nagaland goes to vote today, I urge sisters and brothers of Nagaland to ensure that the peace process that has already been initiated does not face any hurdles. Only peace can lead Nagaland to its destination of progress and development.
As Meghalaya goes to vote today, I would appeal to the voters to elect a corruption-free government in the state. Clean governance will ensure that government schemes reach the poorest of the poor and bring about prosperity in their lives. Come out and vote in large numbers.”
Both the Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister along with top BJP leaders have campaigned for the party and its allies in the two northeastern states.
Voting is currently underway in Meghalaya and Nagaland since 7 a.m. on Monday and it will continue till 4 p.m.
Balloting is not being held in one Assembly constituency in each state.
Both Nagaland and Meghalaya have 60 seats each in the state Assemblies.
Polling will not be held in Sohiong Assembly Constituency in East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya, following the death of United Democratic Party (UDP) candidate, H. Donkupar Roy Lyngdoh.
In Nagaland, BJP candidate Kazheto Kinimi was re-elected unopposed from the Akuluto Assembly constituency after his only opponent and Congress nominee Khekashe Sumi withdrew his candidature.
IANS