By-Elections See High Turnout Amid Violence in Wokha

Kohima: Voters headed to the polls Tuesday for by-elections in three wards across Nagaland, with voting concluding peacefully in Chümoukedima and Atoizu but facing unrest in Wokha. State Election Commissioner T. John Longkumer confirmed that polling finished successfully in all designated areas.

Atoizu Town Council recorded the highest participation at 96.41 percent for Ward 9, where NPF candidate G. Shikavi Kiba faced Independent candidate Inaka Z. Chishi. Meanwhile, Ward 11 of the Chümoukedima Town Council saw an 83.6 percent turnout. That seat became vacant following the death of councillor Keneiseto Medoze, leading to a contest between BJP candidate Kezhangutuo Zhotso and NPF candidate Neichü-u Kuotsu.

The by-election for Ward 8 of the Wokha Town Council, held to replace late chairperson Khozamo Murry, was marred by intermittent violence. BJP candidate Mhomo Humtsoe alleged he sustained a forehead injury after being attacked by rival supporters early Tuesday morning. He said, "an FIR had been lodged."

Reports of stone pelting and other disturbances prompted Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate K. Mhathung Tsanglao to impose prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the BNSS, 2023. Despite the unrest, the ward recorded a 69.5 percent turnout as security forces tightened access to polling stations. Candidates Ar. Aling Lotha and Mhomo Humtsoe both expressed confidence in their prospects as voting continued under guard.

Counting of votes and the official declaration of results are scheduled for June 19. Any necessary re-polls will take place on June 18.