Morung Express News
Dimapur | February 24
A day after the State Assembly Elections, reflections from polling day suggest that it was relatively peaceful and probably unfair. Reports of proxy voting have emerged from numerous polling stations in the state and judging by the reaction of the Naga Community on the internet, a large section of young Nagas feel disappointed that a fair electoral process could not be held.
In contrast to this reaction to the polls, news emerged that members of the Midland Youth Union (MYU) managed to ensure fair polls in their polling area which falls under the Western Angami A/C. On polling day, members of the MYU arrived at the polling station to ensure only authentic voters cast their vote.
Khrielezo Tase, a resident of Midland stated that polling in their area was very peaceful with little discrepancies reported. He added that polling officers on duty along with the security forces had co-operated with the youth organization to the utmost extent. “Benches were brought out for all voters to sit on while waiting for their turn to cast their votes,” he added. “We are very proud that our youth has taken up such an initiative,” stated Tase adding that this was a commendable accomplishment.
President of The MYU, Viket Vizotha, while speaking to The Morung Express, stated that “it was an initiative taken with cooperation from the Midland panchayat.” Commenting on the voter turnout, he stated a considerable portion of the electorate had turned up for polling.
Vizotha also explained how members from the MYU conducted checks on voter ID slips to verify their authenticity. He added that there had been attempts by some people to indulge in proxy voting but the MYU members took action and prevented “these people” from doing so. A Common Platform organized earlier in the area for different candidates had informed the parties to refrain from electoral malpractice on polling day. “It was a very smooth process, where due consideration was given to elders and women by allowing them to cast their votes first,” he stated.
The President of the MYU also added that in spite of personal political affiliations, members of the MYU were able to unite to facilitate a smooth and fair polling process.
A blog post on a social networking site brought about massive appreciation from many young Nagas. “The best post since election. It feels really good reading this,” read one of the comments. Another blogger commented by saying that this was contrary to the way the election was conducted in general. She added, “I wish our people would learn from you guys; anyways cheers to the Midland youth. Keep up the spirit of good work.” This was in stark contrast to the large number of pessimistic posts with regard to the polls.
It is fascinating to note that in the face of widespread reports regarding animosity between different political parties, the young people of Midland were able to transcend their political leanings and work together for an ideal that seems to be lost among most of the electorate. This might be an isolated case of people coming out in support of fairness and equality. But it does connote that in the midst of all political cynicism and misanthropy; there is still a glimmer of hope for the practice of transparent and fair franchise.
