Dimapur: One person lost his life in pre-poll violence at Longkhum village in Nagaland’s Koridang Assembly constituency under Mokokchung district, following a clash between supporters of rival candidates late Sunday night.
Polling for the bye-election in the constituency is scheduled to take place on April 9.
Nagaland Deputy CM Y. Patton, who also holds the Home portfolio, strongly condemned the death of Imrongsungba Imchen in the pre-poll violence at Longkhum village.
He expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Imchen, who succumbed to his injuries while being referred for medical treatment.
Patton said violence has no place in a democratic process, adding that elections must remain a platform for the expression of the people’s will and not become a source of fear, anger, or division.
He added that such incidents weaken public trust and disturb the sense of unity among communities.
Patton urged all citizens of the Koridang constituency, across political affiliations, to remain calm and exercise restraint.
Meanwhile, Mokokchung District Magistrate Ajit Kumar Verma on Monday imposed a night curfew within the jurisdiction of Longkhum village, Mangmetong village, and Alichen area, including 2 NAP Camp, under the constituency.
The curfew will be in effect from 6 PM to 6 AM with immediate effect, until further orders.
In an order, Verma said there is a likelihood of a breach of public peace and tranquility within the jurisdiction of Longkhum village, Mangmetong village, and Alichen area, which may endanger human life and property.
Based on reports received from Mokokchung sector magistrates and the Senior SP, and upon careful examination of the prevailing law-and-order situation, Verma said immediate preventive measures are necessary to prevent any breach of public peace and ensure maintenance of public order within the jurisdiction of Longkhum village, Mangmetong village, and Alichen area.
The order stated that the assembly of five or more persons will remain strictly prohibited within these areas. Police, armed forces, security personnel, magistrates, government officials on official/election duty, medical personnel, ambulance and emergency services, and individuals engaged in emergency or essential services have been exempted from the prohibition.
Considering the urgency of the matter, the order has been passed ex parte, Verma added.