Shillong: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has assured that all necessary preparations are in place for the upcoming bypolls in the Gambegre Assembly constituency, scheduled for November 13. With the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) now in effect, strict measures are being implemented to ensure free and fair elections.
Meghalaya Chief Electoral Officer BDR Tiwari emphasized that the MCC will apply across the district, guiding political parties, candidates, and the state government to adhere to election norms. The election process will proceed with key deadlines, including:
- October 18: Official notification of the bypolls.
- October 25: Last date for filing nominations.
- October 28: Scrutiny of nomination papers.
- October 30: Last date for withdrawal of nominations.
- November 13: Polling day.
- November 23: Declaration of results.
In a significant development, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has announced that his wife, Mehtab Chandee, will contest the bypolls on behalf of the National People’s Party (NPP). The decision, according to the chief minister, follows public demand and was announced at a public meeting in Gambegre.
On the opposition front, the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) has named Sadhiarani M. Sangma, the lone woman member of the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC), as its candidate. The announcement was made amidst allegations from former Chief Minister and TMC leader Mukul Sangma, accusing the NPP of “misusing” state machinery to secure the seat.
With both parties fielding strong candidates, the Gambegre bypolls are shaping up to be a closely watched contest.