Shillong: The Jaintia Students Movement wants a delay. The group sent a formal request to the Election Commission of India on October 18. They demand the Shillong parliamentary by-election happen only after school exams and Christmas festivities wrap up. It is a tight schedule.
Students face internal exams throughout November. The Meghalaya Board of School Education sets SSLC tests between December 4 and 16. The student body told officials that holding a vote during this window creates undue pressure. They sent the memorandum to the Chief Election Commissioner via the Meghalaya Chief Electoral Officer and the East Jaintia Hills District Election Officer.
The Shillong seat fell vacant after MP Dr. Ricky AJ Syngkon died on February 19. Now, the JSM warns that election noise will ruin the holidays. They argue the ECI must show some sense. The group stated that they want the poll panel to "balance statutory requirements with the broader interests of students and the general public" when setting the final dates.
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