Meghalaya: Garo voters turn up in record numbers for KHADC election in Rambrai-Jyrngam  

Polling in the Rambrai-Jyrngam constituency for the KHADC election is proceeding smoothly, with a particularly high turnout reported along the Assam-Meghalaya border. At the Athiabari polling station, where 1,049 votes were cast, 90-year-old voter Hersing M Sangma confirmed that the process remained peaceful.

Independent candidate Lurshai Kharbani highlighted a historic shift in voter participation, noting an unprecedented turnout from the Garo community. Traditionally, Garo voters had been reluctant to participate in KHADC elections, feeling sidelined compared to their Khasi counterparts. However, Kharbani attributed the renewed confidence to MLA RG Momin’s influence and his own outreach efforts.

The constituency has 16,000 Garo and 28,000 Khasi voters. Kharbani believes past trends will continue, pointing to previous MDC elections where candidates backed by the MLA secured victories.

MLA Momin remains optimistic that voters will support Kharbani, emphasising the need for continued development. Key priorities include improving road connectivity, expanding educational institutions, and strengthening the agricultural sector. Kharbani’s victory, he suggests, would amplify these efforts by consolidating political support.