New Delhi/UNI: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday said the people of Meghalaya and Nagaland are looking towards "progressive, welfare-oriented governments'.

Voting in 59 out of the 60 Assembly seats in Meghalaya and Nagaland are underway in both the North Eastern states, amid tight security.

Election to one seat in Meghalaya has been deferred following the death of a candidate, while in Nagaland a candidate won unopposed from an Assembly constituency.

"People of Meghalaya and Nagaland are looking towards progressive, welfare-oriented governments," Kharge tweeted.

He also appealed to the first time voters to participate in the democratic process for a better future.

"Urge our sisters and brothers of Meghalaya and Nagaland to give change a chance," Kharge said.

The polling began at 7 am and will continue till 4 pm.

The counting of votes will take place on March 2.