The Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) election in Rambrai-Jyrngam has marked a historic voter turnout, particularly from the Garo community, which had previously shown low participation rates in the council elections.
Polling on February 21, 2025, proceeded smoothly across the constituency, with an especially high turnout along the Assam-Meghalaya border. The Athiabari polling station, one of the key locations, recorded 1,049 votes cast, with voters confirming a peaceful electoral process.
Among the enthusiastic voters was 90-year-old Hersing M Sangma, who expressed his satisfaction with the election proceedings, calling it a crucial moment for the community’s political representation.
Garo Voters Break Traditional Hesitation
A key highlight of this election has been the unexpected rise in participation from the Garo community, which has historically been reluctant to vote in KHADC elections.
Independent candidate Lurshai Kharbani noted that this election saw a historic shift in voter engagement, attributing it to two major factors:
- MLA RG Momin’s efforts in instilling confidence among Garo voters
- His own extensive outreach initiatives aimed at ensuring fair representation
Historically, Garo voters in Rambrai-Jyrngam had felt marginalized in KHADC elections, as they perceived a bias in favor of Khasi candidates. However, this renewed political engagement signals a transformation in voter sentiment and a shift in electoral dynamics in the region.
Demographic Breakdown of Rambrai-Jyrngam’s Electorate
The Rambrai-Jyrngam constituency is a multi-ethnic region, comprising:
- 16,000 Garo voters
- 28,000 Khasi voters
Traditionally, Khasi candidates have dominated KHADC elections, but with increasing Garo participation, this balance may shift in future polls.
Why This Election Matters?
With record voter turnout, particularly from a previously underrepresented community, political leaders and candidates are now focusing on developmental priorities to sustain this new wave of political enthusiasm.
MLA RG Momin, a key figure in mobilizing Garo voters, emphasized that Kharbani’s victory would strengthen the constituency’s political voice and help drive meaningful development in the region.
Some of the key priorities highlighted by voters and candidates include:
1. Road Connectivity & Infrastructure Development
- Enhancing transport networks across rural and urban areas
- Improving road connectivity between Meghalaya and Assam
- Addressing infrastructure gaps in remote villages
Many voters in the Garo-majority areas expressed frustration over poor road conditions, which have hindered economic growth and access to essential services.
2. Strengthening Educational Institutions
- Expanding school and college facilities
- Increasing government support for education
- Encouraging bilingual and inclusive education for Khasi and Garo students
Education has been a major concern in Rambrai-Jyrngam, with many areas lacking access to higher education institutions. The new political engagement may push for stronger educational reforms in the region.
3. Boosting Agricultural Development
- Providing better irrigation systems
- Encouraging modern farming techniques
- Strengthening agricultural markets and farmer support programs
Agriculture remains the primary livelihood for many residents of Rambrai-Jyrngam. The increase in voter engagement suggests a growing demand for government intervention to support farmers and agricultural growth.
Political Implications: What This Means for KHADC and Future Elections?
The unprecedented turnout of Garo voters in this election signals a shift in Meghalaya’s political landscape.
Possible Political Outcomes:
- Stronger Garo representation in KHADC
- More inclusive governance in Khasi-dominated areas
- Better development focus on neglected communities
If Kharbani secures victory, it could pave the way for greater political representation of Garos in future KHADC elections, challenging the traditional dominance of Khasi-backed candidates.
Independent candidate Lurshai Kharbani believes that the current momentum will carry forward into future elections, ensuring that both Khasi and Garo communities have equal representation in KHADC.
A Turning Point for Rambrai-Jyrngam
The KHADC election in Rambrai-Jyrngam has set a new precedent in voter participation, particularly for the Garo community.
With increased turnout, a renewed focus on development, and a changing electoral landscape, this election marks a major shift in regional politics.
The final results will determine whether these aspirations for better infrastructure, education, and agricultural reforms will translate into tangible progress for the people of Rambrai-Jyrngam.
Regardless of the outcome, one thing is certain—the political engagement of the Garo community has been permanently transformed, setting the stage for more inclusive governance in Meghalaya.
