Northeast Desk, 22nd May: Sanbor Shullai, the Meghalaya Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislator representing South Shillong, expressed concern over the constituency’s record-low voter turnout of 58.36 percent in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Addressing reporters on May 21, Shullai attributed the low turnout to the absence of a BJP candidate from Shillong. He claimed that approximately 30 percent of BJP voters in South Shillong refrained from casting their votes due to the party’s decision not to field a candidate from the area.
According to Shullai, the absence of his name and the BJP’s Lotus symbol on the ballot led to confusion among voters, with some even questioning presiding officers about his candidacy.
In contrast, Meghalaya witnessed a notable turnout of 76.60 percent during the first phase of the 2024 Lok Sabha General Elections held on April 19. Results for the elections are slated to be declared on June 4, 2024.
Read More: Assam: Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary Temporarily Closes During Monsoon Season