JSM Urges Election Commission to Hold Shillong By-Election After School Exams and Christmas

Khliehriat, October 15: The Jaintia Students’ Movement (JSM), Central Body, has submitted a formal representation to the Chief Election Commissioner of India through the Chief Electoral Officer, Meghalaya, and the District Election Officer-cum-Deputy Commissioner of East Jaintia Hills District, urging the Election Commission to schedule the 1-Shillong Parliamentary Constituency by-election at a suitable time, considering students’ academic interests and the religious and cultural significance of Christmas.

In its representation, JSM recalled that Dr. Ricky A. J. Syngkon, Member of Parliament representing the Shillong Parliamentary Constituency, passed away on February 19, 2026, in Shillong following a massive cardiac arrest. The by-election was initially expected to be held within six months, by August 2026. However, it was postponed in connection with the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Meghalaya.

The organisation stated that the SIR exercise was expected to be completed by October 2026, raising expectations that the by-election schedule would be announced thereafter.

JSM has urged the Election Commission to take into account the academic calendar, as school final and promotion examinations in Meghalaya are expected to be held in November 2026, while the Meghalaya Board of School Education (MBOSE) Secondary School Leaving Certificate (SSLC) examinations are scheduled from December 4 to 16, 2026.

Also read: Meghalaya Govt Seeking Slash Of Coal Mining Area From 100 Hectares To 10 Hectares

The Movement also highlighted the importance of the Christmas season, which begins in the third week of December and holds deep religious and cultural significance for the people of Meghalaya.

According to JSM, election campaigning during the examination period could disrupt students’ studies and preparation, while holding the election during Christmas could affect people’s participation in religious observances and festive activities.

Also watch:

In view of these concerns, JSM has appealed to the Election Commission to consider conducting the by-election after the completion of the SSLC examinations and the Christmas festivities, subject to constitutional and statutory requirements.

The organisation reiterated its commitment to protecting students’ academic interests while respecting the democratic process and the religious and cultural sentiments of the people.