Morung Express News
Mokokchung | March 30
Giving updates on the bye-election preparedness, the Deputy Commissioner & District Election Officer, Mokokchung, Ajit Kumar Verma, IAS informed that there are 30 polling stations, of which 17 have been identified as critical and 13 as vulnerable, with security deployment being carried out accordingly.
During a press briefing on Monday, the DC & DEO Mokokchung stated that the number of sectors has been increased from four to six for better management, with each sector assigned a sector magistrate and a commandant.
The DC stated that adequate security forces have been received and are being deployed. Emphasising the important role of village councils in the local context, he cautioned that any violations would be dealt with in accordance with the provisions of the Village Council Act.
The DC also informed that all 30 polling stations will be under CCTV surveillance. He sought the assistance of civil society organisations and the church to guide the public toward ensuring a free, fair, and peaceful election.
Mangmetong village Council withdraws objection
Meanwhile, the district administration on Monday informed the Mangmetong Village Council (MVC) has withdrawn its earlier objection to the declaration programme of independent candidate Imchatoba Imchen following a meeting convened by the authorities.
The meeting, held on March 29 at the DC’s office conference hall, was chaired by the DC & DEO Mokokchung to address law and order concerns and complaints related to election activities in the village. Officials and members of the MVC attended the deliberations.
The DC stated that the MVC has clarified that its earlier objection to the candidate’s declaration programme was based on security concerns and in the interest of maintaining peace in the village. However, the council affirmed that all contesting candidates are welcome to campaign in the village.
The DC clarified stating, “Restricting the free movement of any candidate constitutes a violation of the Model Code of Conduct.”
The council has now agreed to permit Imchen to proceed with his declaration programme and has assured full cooperation, the DC stated. It has also withdrawn its earlier communication and issued a formal “No Objection Certificate” on March 30, permitting the programme subject to prior intimation of at least 48 hours, the DC said.
The District Administration and Police have assured adequate security arrangements to ensure the peaceful conduct of election-related activities. The village authorities have been advised to report any concerns to the designated sector officials.
He also informed that the earlier communication issued by the village council on March 28 had indicated support for a particular candidate and sought cooperation from Mangmetong union bodies in Mokokchung, Kohima, Dimapur and Alichen. The council has expressed regret over the communication and resolved to withdraw it in writing.
Polling for the 28 Koridang Assembly Constituency bye-election is scheduled on April 9, 2026, while postal ballots for more than 200 electors will be conducted on April 4.
