Shillong, Feb 19: In the wake of reports of electioneering for ADC elections happening across the border in Assam, the state government has clarified that no such campaigning shall take place outside the designated constituency boundaries.
“No campaigning can take place outside the notified constituency boundaries. Polling stations and villages under KHADC and JHADC have been officially listed, with only minor amendments during delimitation. Everything happens within these boundaries,” stated Cyril Diengdoh, commissioner & secretary in-charge of the District Council Affairs (DCA) department on Tuesday.
Earlier, media reports alleged that a candidate for election to Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (JHADC) had been campaigning inside Assam’s territory.
According to the report, the candidate along with supporters travelled 25 km into West Karbi Anglong district of Assam and campaigned in disputed areas of Makro and Umkhremi along the inter-state boundary.
However, Diengdoh said the report on campaigning across the border still needs verification.
“I cannot confirm its accuracy. If the campaigning took place in Mukroh, there is no issue as it is well within Meghalaya. However, we will seek a report to verify the claims,” he added.
He also emphasized that election norms require candidates to obtain prior permission from the returning officer and deputy commissioner for public meetings, rallies, or processions.
“The DCs are fully aware of jurisdictional limits and permissions granted. If campaigning happens, it must follow the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and be approved through the proper process,” he said.
