Imphal: The Congress party in Manipur, various Christian and students’ bodies have appealed to the Election Commission of India to reschedule the poll date of the first phase on February 27 as it falls on Sunday, a day of prayer for Christians.
Congress MLA, K Meghachandra said his party will write to the Election Commission of India (ECI) regarding the matter. Manipur will go to the polls in two phases — February 27 (Sunday) and March 3 next . Out of 60 Assembly constituencies, 20 constituencies fall in hill districts which are dominated by people following Christianity.
The All Tribal Students’ Union Manipur (ATSUM) has also opposed holding the General Assembly election on Sunday.
The All Manipur Christian Association has discussed the matter with Election officials in Manipur and urged them to send their sentiments and demands to the ECI.
Meanwhile BD Behring former MP and a prominent Christian leader said on the first day of poll nine Assembly constituencies are predominantly resided by Christians.
He said Saikul (ST), Kangopkpi (ST)- Saitu (ST), Tipaimukh (ST), Thanton (ST), Henglep (ST), Churachandpur (ST), Saikot (ST) and Singhat (ST) Assembly constituencies will be covered in the
first phase and fixing Poll date on Sunday is against the religious sentiment of the Christian community.
He said all should uphold the Principles of the Indian Constitution which clearly indicate India as “Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic”.
