Chairperson of the Meghalaya State Women’s Commission Phidalia Toi and another member, Felicita Majaw are under the scanner of election authorities for violation of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
Toi had participated in a rally taken out by Jowai NPP candidate, Wailadmiki Shylla to file his nomination papers while Majaw was seen supporting Mawlai Congress candidate, Marbud Dkhar, who also is her husband, during filing of nomination papers.
A complaint against Majaw was also made to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) FR Kharkongor with news links showing her participation in the rally as he openly wears the Congress scarf and supporting the candidate. The complaint has sought for her removal as the member of the commission.
The CEO said he has instructed the East Khasi Hills District and West Jaiñtia Hills Election Officers to cause enquiry and to submit a report.
West Jaiñtia Hills DEO, Batlang Sohliya said a show-cause notice will be sent to the chairperson.
Election officials said the Election Commission of India has been very clear that Section 129 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 bars government servants to act for candidates or to influence voting during elections.
Since Toi and Majaw are deemed as public servants by the Meghalaya State Commission for Women Act, 2005 in all likelihood they will be removed from the post, officials said.
Meanwhile sources said another member of the women’s commission Violet Lyngdoh did not resign from her post before deciding to contest the elections for Khliehriat constituency.
Officials said as per rules, a government servant who intends to contest elections has to resign. Lyngdoh continues to be a member and had filed her nomination papers to contest on NPP ticket, which was rejected.
