SHILLONG, April 10: The State Election department has begun its preparations for the May 10 by-election to the Sohiong seat.
The constituency could not go to Assembly elections in February due to the demise of UDP candidate HDR Lyngdoh.
Chief Electoral Officer FR Kharkongor on Monday said a static surveillance team (SST), a video surveillance team (VST) and a team of flying squads have been deployed to the constituency. Each team has three members.
“Three teams of SST, VST and flying squads are closely monitoring the situation under the supervision of the RO (Returning Officer) and the District Election Officer,” Kharkongor said.
As of now, no case of violation of the model code of conduct has been reported and similarly, no cash or liquor seized.
The constituency has been divided into six sectors and two zones. As far as preventive measures are concerned, 53 arms have been deposited.
There are 63 polling stations in the constituency and it has altogether 34,783 voters – 17,096 males and 17,687 females. The present low-key campaigning is expected to gather pace with the end of Easter celebrations.
The UDP, which is fielding HDR Lyngdoh’s nephew Synshar Lyngdoh, is banking on sympathy wave. Other parties such as NPP, BJP and HSPDP are also upbeat about winning the seat. Congress and TMC are also contesting.
The votes will be counted on May 13.
