SHILLONG: The new model and women-only polling stations sported a colourful, almost festive, look on Tuesday, in sharp contrast to the previous assembly election.
The electorates who waited in queues to cast their votes in the 61 model polling stations and 67 women’s polling booths must have marked the difference too.
The model polling stations and the women-only booths were set up in each of the 60 Assembly constituencies adding a touch of colour to the rather solemn occasion.
The entrances to the women’s polling stations also known as Pink Polling Stations were decorated in pink; even the booths were also splashed in pink.
However both male and female voters voted in the Pink Polling Stations. Asked, some of the volunteers said they thought that only female voters would vote in these booths.
In the model polling stations, pink was replaced by green. The common facilities were access to drinking water, waiting area, toilet facilities and ramps for the physically handicapped. A signature campaign was also held at the special polling stations.
Women’s empowerment
In Mawlai constituency, women voters outnumbered men by 3745.
Electorates at the women’s polling station at Kiri Singh School, Mawlai Nonglum in Mawlai constituency were asked about this trend. Initially hesitant to talk, a lady said, “It is good for women to get opportunities. This should help to empower them.”
Another lady said, “It is time for women to lead as women are known to be determined and will push forward to achieve their goals.” Her friend who was standing behind her said, “It is true that women are in power but men should also support.”
Security
A visit to some of the pockets in West Shillong constituency revealed that many areas were manned by security personnel to monitor the safety and security of the polling stations marked as sensitive by the election department.
It may be recalled that a live grenade was found from the private vehicle of a Congress supporter in West Shillong a few days ahead of the polls.
