Polling in Meghalaya, Nagaland today, BJP looks to expand footprint in Northeast

GUWAHATI: Polling is being held today in Meghalaya and Nagaland after a high-octane campaign which saw the BJP make a spirited bid to win the two Christian-majority states in the northeast.

Buoyed by formation of its governments in Assam, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh the BJP pulled out all stops in its attempt to extend its footprint further in the area, especially in Meghalaya which has been ruled by Mukul Sangma of the Congress over the past 10 years.


Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself spearheaded the campaign with Party chief Amit Shah, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, I&B minister Smriti Irani and a host of other leaders also chipping in. Union Minister of State for Tourism K J Alphons, a Christian from Kerala, stayed put in Meghalaya as the BJP in- charge of the state.

From the Congress, its president Rahul Gandhi campaigned in the state. Its media chief Randeep Singh Surjewala and MP Shashi Tharoor extended helping hands.

The Congress has fielded 59 candidates, while the BJP has put up nominees in 47 constituencies. But according to projections, the real challenger is Conrad Sangma of the National People's Front who though fighting seperately was the BJP's partner in NEDA (North East Democratic Alliance).

In Nagaland, the BJP's hope hinges on its alliance partner NDPP (Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party) of Neiphiu Rio which is contesting 40 seats. The BJP is fighting 20.

Around 11, 70,548 voters will exercise franchise in 59 constituencies in Nagaland. There are 60 assembly seats however National Democratic Political Party (NDPP)candidate and former chief minister Neiphiu Rio was elected unopposed to the Nagaland Assembly as his opponent withdrew nomination to Northern Angami-II seat.

Ahead of polls around Rs 38 lakh cash seized from East Khasi Hills district by static surveillance team of Election Commission and Sunday, 12 lakh was seized in Ri-Bhoi district of Meghalaya.

In 2013, Nagaland witnessed voter’s turnout of 90.19 percent. Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Nagaland, Abhijit Sinha said section 144 of CrPC is imposed in Mokokchung district.

Nagaland has received 250 companies of central para military forces (CPMF) for the polls. There are around 555 polling stations. The election commission has decided to ensure free and fair elections, CCTV surveillance has been installed in the polling stations across the state with either webcast or offline videography.