The Deputy Commissioner and District Election Officer of Ri-Bhoi, Arpit Upadhaya, informed today that tight security has been deployed in the disputed Block 2 area of the state to ensure a free and fair election come February 27.
The area is one of several along the border that are disputed between Meghalaya and Assam.
Briefing reporters here today, Upadhaya said that the district administration has taken action following reports that an MLA in West Karbi Anglong in Assam stated publicly that the people of Block 2 have no right to cast their vote in Meghalaya.
To prevent any untoward incident and to instill confidence among voters in the area come election day, district police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) have been deployed in Block 2 with regular foot patrols.
Upadhaya has spoken to his West Karbi Anglong counterpart and Chief Secretary Donald P Wahlang has also written to his opposite number in Assam calling for an atmosphere free from fear during the election. The Assam authorities have ensured their cooperation, the Ri-Bhoi DC said.
He also warned against spreading fake news, rumours that create fear or intimidation and anyone found doing so will be punished according to the law.
