SHILLONG, April 12: More than 50 static surveillance teams (SSTs) and flying squads have been deployed throughout the East Khasi Hills district to ensure cash allurement does not play any role in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
Election Returning Officer and East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner, SC Sadhu said their focus in this election is on checking the use of money power and other freebies that can influence the voters.
He said 51 SSTs and flying squads have been deployed apart from central armed paramilitary forces (CAPFs) in the district. “Sector and divisional magistrates are keeping a close vigil on the flow of money in this election,” he added.
Congress candidate for the Shillong Lok Sabha seat, Vincent H Pala recently accused the NPP of attempting to “buy” the votes of the people in Jaintia Hills.
Reacting to a query, Sadhu said the seizures during the run-up to the polls have increased this time due to effective interception by the teams.
He said the CAPFs have been deployed in vulnerable areas including Ichamati to ensure a peaceful election.
“The magistrates are also visiting these places continuously to ensure the law-and-order situation. The administration manpower is being mobilised accordingly,” he said.
The DC lamented the urban apathy to the measures to increase voters’ participation in the Shillong parliamentary seat, where the turnout has been traditionally low compared to the Tura Lok Sabha seat.
Meanwhile, Sadhu held a meeting with leaders of all the political parties in connection with the Lok Sabha polls.
Sadhu urged the leaders of all the political parties to maintain law and order. “Meghalaya is a peaceful state and in every election we must ensure that it goes on without any problems,” he added.
He urged the political parties to request their supporters not to create havoc in public meeting conducted by rival parties. He also advised them not to spread fake news or messages without verifying them.
