Khliehriat, October 15: The Jaiñtia Students’ Movement (JSM), Central Body, has urged the Election Commission of India (ECI) to schedule the by-election to the 1-Shillong Parliamentary Constituency after the completion of school examinations and the Christmas festival, citing concerns over students’ academic interests and the religious and cultural significance of the festive season.
In a representation submitted to the Chief Election Commissioner through the Chief Electoral Officer, Meghalaya, and the District Election Officer and Deputy Commissioner of East Jaiñtia Hills, the organisation appealed for a suitable election date while ensuring compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements.
The JSM recalled that the Shillong Lok Sabha seat fell vacant following the death of MP Dr. Ricky A.J. Syngkon on February 19, 2026, in Shillong after suffering a massive cardiac arrest.
According to the organisation, the by-election was initially expected to be conducted within six months, by August 2026, but was postponed in connection with the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Meghalaya. The movement stated that the revision exercise was expected to be completed by October 2026, following which the Election Commission was anticipated to announce the by-election schedule.
Highlighting the academic calendar, the JSM pointed out that final and promotion examinations in schools across Meghalaya are expected to take place in November, while the Meghalaya Board of School Education (MBOSE) Secondary School Leaving Certificate (SSLC) examinations are scheduled from December 4 to 16.
The organisation expressed concern that election campaigning and related political activities during the examination period could disrupt students’ studies and affect their preparation. The JSM also emphasised the religious and cultural importance of Christmas in Meghalaya, noting that festivities begin in the third week of December. It maintained that conducting the by-election during the Christmas season could interfere with celebrations and affect public participation in religious and community activities.
In view of these concerns, the movement appealed to the Election Commission to consider scheduling the Shillong parliamentary by-election only after the completion of the SSLC examinations and the Christmas festival, subject to the applicable constitutional and statutory provisions. The JSM reiterated its commitment to protecting students’ academic interests while respecting the democratic process and the religious and cultural sentiments of the people of Meghalaya.
