Morung Express News
Mokokchung | March 20
Poll-related violence was reported from Chungtia village under the 28-Koridang Assembly Constituency in Mokokchung district late on Thursday night, leading to the detention of 12 persons by police.
According to police officials, the first incident occurred at around 10:00 pm when a clash broke out between two groups. Security personnel from the Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB), who had already been deployed in the area, intervened and brought the situation under control.
Officials said a second incident took place near the Sapangya area between midnight and 1:00 am. The situation was again controlled by IRB personnel and the police.
Sources alleged that the violence involved stone-pelting, while gunfire and an explosive sound were also reportedly heard. However, these claims could not be independently verified at the time of filing this report.
Police officials said 12 persons were detained in connection with the incidents. A case has been registered and forwarded to the court, they added.
In response to the unrest, District Magistrate Ajit Kumar Verma issued an order imposing curfew in the village under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, citing apprehension of disturbance to public peace and tranquillity “which may endanger human life and property.”
The curfew will remain in force from 6:00 PM to 5:00 AM, and assembly of five or more persons has been strictly prohibited within the jurisdiction of the village, the order stated.
The restrictions have been imposed in view of the Model Code of Conduct operational across Mokokchung district due to the ensuing bye-election to the 28-Koridang Assembly Constituency, the official said.
Exemptions have been granted to police, armed forces and security personnel on duty, magistrates and government officials on official duty, medical personnel, ambulance and emergency services, as well as individuals engaged in emergency services, essential services or election duty, the order stated.
Violation of the order will lead to prosecution under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and other relevant provisions of law.
The order came into force with immediate effect and will remain valid until further orders, the official added.
