New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday urged the people of Meghalaya and Nagaland to vote in record numbers as the voting in 59 out of the 60 Assembly seats each in Meghalaya and Nagaland are underway in both the North Eastern states, amid tight security.
Election to one seat in Meghalaya has been deferred following death of a candidate, while in Nagaland a candidate won unopposed from a Assembly constituency.
“Urging the people of Meghalaya and Nagaland, particularly the young and first time voters, to vote in record numbers today,” Modi wrote in a tweet.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also took to the micro blogging site and wrote, “While Nagaland goes to vote today, I urge sisters and brothers of Nagaland to ensure that the peace process that has already been initiated does not face any hurdles.”
He said only peace can lead Nagaland to its destination of progress and development.
In another tweet, Shah wrote, “As Meghalaya goes to vote today, I would appeal to the voters to elect a corruption-free government in the state.”
“Clean governance will ensure that government schemes reach the poorest of the poor and bring about prosperity in their lives. Come out and vote in large numbers,” he said.
BJP president JP Nadda and Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge also took to twitter and appealed to people of both the NE states to exercise their franchise.
“I appeal to all the citizens of Nagaland to exercise their democratic right to vote in the maximum possible numbers and choose a government that is dedicated towards ensuring a prosperous and corruption-free Nagaland. Each vote of yours will contribute to the state’s bright future,” Nadda said.
He added, “I urge the people and especially the youth of Meghalaya to show up in maximum numbers and to cast their vote for a proactive, corruption-free government in the assembly elections of the state. Each vote of yours will be a deciding factor in the state’s future and it’s progress.”
Kharge said, “People of Meghalaya and Nagaland are looking towards progressive, welfare-oriented governments. Welcome our first time voters to participate in this democratic process for a better future. ”
“Urge our sisters and brothers of Meghalaya and Nagaland to give change a chance,” he said.
The polling began at 0700 hours and will continue till 1600 hours.
The counting of votes will take place on March 2.
