The scrutiny of the nomination papers of all the eight candidates contesting the by-elections to South Tura and Ranikor constituencies in Meghalaya went off without any cancellation on Tuesday as all the eight papers were found to be valid.
This was announced by Chief Electoral Officer Frederick Kharkongor after the scrutiny.
In Ranikor, the papers of candidates, MM Danggo (NPP), Pius Marwein (UDP), PN Syiem (PDF) and Jackiush Sangma (Congress) were scrutinized in the presence of candidates.
Notably, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, who was a member of Lok Sabha when he assumed charge of the State is seeking membership in the Legislative Assembly through contesting the prestigious South Tura seat.
Scrutiny of the papers of the chief minister, former legislator John Leslee K Sangma, Congress candidate Charlotte W Momin and Kris Kabul A Sangma were taken up in the morning in the office of the Returning Officer, Sabrella B Marak.
The entire process of scrutinizing the papers took around half an hour, according to officials.
All three candidates, except Conrad Sangma, were present during scrutiny of the nomination papers.
The Chief Minister in his absence was represented by North Tura MLA Thomas A Sangma along with senior party functionaries of the NPP during the scrutiny process.
Thursday is the last date for withdrawal of candidature.