SHILLONG, July 23 - The bye-election to South Tura Assembly constituency in Meghalaya would be held on August 23, which would seal the fate of Chief Minister Conrad Sangma and the National People�s Party-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance Government.
Sangma would be contesting from the seat, which was vacated by South Tura legislator and Sangma�s sister, Agatha Sangma. The CM is the sitting MP from Tura and was last seen in Parliament during the recent No-confidence motion against NDA Government.
According to Chief Electoral Officer, Frederick Roy Kharkongor, the last date of nomination has been fixed on August 6 and August 7 as the last date for scrutiny of nominations.
The last date for withdrawal of candidature is August 2 and the counting would be held on August 27. �The Commission, after taking into consideration various factors like local festivals, electoral rolls and weather conditions, has decided to hold the bye-election on the given date,� Kharkongor said.
The Commission has decided to use EVMs and VVPATs in the bye-elections in all the polling stations. Adequate number of EVMs and VVPATs have been made available for the constituency and all steps have been taken to ensure that the polls are conducted smoothly using the machines.
The model code of conduct has come into force in the district after today�s announcement. The model shall be applicable to all candidates, political parties and State and Union Government concerned, Kharkongor added.
