EC re-allocates new party symbol to Meghalaya party

Shillong, Feb 12 (UNI) The Election Commission has re-allocated a new symbol to Meghalaya-based political party, the Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM) after declaring 'bow-and-arrow' as the permanent symbol of Jharkand Mukti Morcha(JMM).

The KHNAM, the political wing of Khasi Student's Union, had used the symbol of bow and arrow in the last 2003 assembly polls and won two seats in the 60-members House.

JMM was recognised as a national party after it had contested the 2005 Assembly elections with the bow-and-arrow symbol.

''We have chosen dao as our new symbol and we are confident to win at least seven seats,'' KHNAM President and Urban Affairs Minister, Paul Lyngdoh told UNI here today.

The KHNAM President, however, said that his party was considering legal options regarding the sudden decision of the Election Commission to deny his party its old symbol.

The party will contest the polls from 14 constituencies on its own and support HSPDP in 9 other seats.

Mr Lyngdoh, a former KSU leader, will seek re-election for the second time from Jaiaw constituency. He will be pitted against former Finance Minister AH Scott Lyngdoh, who is contesting on Congress ticket.

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