KOHIMA: The people of Eastern Nagaland are “not boycotting” the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, but have decided to “abstain from voting”.
This was stated by president of the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO), R Tsapikiu Sangtam.
Additionally, the ENPO, tribal associations, Eastern Nagaland Women Organization (ENWO) and the Eastern Nagaland Students’ Federation (ENSF) have pledged to safeguard elected officials and government employees encountering consequences for adhering to the decision of the Eastern Nagaland people by “voluntarily refraining” from voting in the Lok Sabha elections.
Nagaland deputy chief minister Y Patton, recently, reaffirmed the government’s determination to conduct polling across the state, including Eastern Nagaland, despite encountering opposition.
The Nagaland deputy CM made this announcement in light of inquiries from media representatives regarding potential disturbances amid significant resistance to electoral participation, particularly in Eastern Nagaland.
Patton further stated that the Nagaland government is working towards encouraging the ENPO to engage in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.