West Garo Hills, Meghalaya– The by-election for the Gambegre assembly constituency in Meghalaya saw a voter turnout of 49.3% by 1 PM on Wednesday, according to state election officials. Voting commenced at 7 AM amid enhanced security arrangements, with long queues forming at numerous polling stations, reflecting significant voter enthusiasm.
“There is enthusiasm among voters, and polling is picking up. Reports are coming in of long queues in several polling stations,” stated Meghalaya Chief Electoral Officer BDR Tiwari.
The by-election was triggered following the election of the former MLA Saleng A Sangma to the Lok Sabha. Notable candidates include Mehtab Chandee Sangma, wife of Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, contesting for the National People’s Party (NPP). She faces Jingjang M Marak from Congress, Sadhiarani M Sangma from the Trinamool Congress, Bernard N Marak from BJP, along with independents Sengkrabirth Marak and Jerry A Sangma.
The constituency has a total of 32,254 registered voters, of whom 15,923 are women. Out of 51 polling stations in West Garo Hills district, 31 are classified as critical, and security has been tightened accordingly. Polling is set to close at 4 PM.