Four candidates file papers on first day of filing nomination

Four candidates including Meghalaya Cabinet minister Ampareen Lyngdoh filed their papers today, the first day of filing nomination for the February 27 state Assembly election, a top election official said.
Lyngdoh, a two-time legislator from East Shillong constituency, is the first from the ruling Congress to file her nomination papers.
The three others who filed their papers are Independent candidates - Ricky Shullai from Mylliem constituency, Mattsing Nongrum from Sohra seat and L Nongsiang from Mawshynrut constituency, chief electoral officer F R Kharkongor said.
Speaking to journalists, Ampareen said that the she need not speak much on her election strategy to retain her seat because she is determined to work hard till the last day.

"I appeal to the people of my constituency to kindly support me again and come out of your homes and cast your votes," she said.
"I have said that I would contest on a Congress ticket ... because I am a committed Congress worker and I am proud of my leader Rahul Gandhiji and I will always with Congress," she added.
The last date of filing of nomination is on February 7, while scrutiny of nominations is on February 8 and withdrawal is on February 12.
Elections will be held on February 27 and counting of voters will take place on March 3.