Kohima: The bye-election for Wokha Town Council Ward-8 concluded on June 16 with a 69.37 percent voter turnout. The contest between BJP candidate Mhomo Humtsoe and NPF nominee Ar Aling Lotha was held to fill the seat left vacant by the death of former Council Chairperson Khozamo Murry in December 2025.
Tensions emerged early on election day when Humtsoe reported that he and two BJP observers were assaulted around 4:30 a.m. while inspecting the polling station. Humtsoe stated that a group led by an individual named Zubemo confronted them, resulting in physical injuries. The incident led to the filing of an FIR, and authorities later took the accused into police custody.
Addressing the event, Humtsoe said, "We are trying to ensure a free, fair and peaceful election, but such incidents are unfortunate and undermine the democratic process." Additional unrest occurred as a video circulated online showing individuals throwing stones, which left two police officers with minor injuries.
To maintain order, the Wokha District Administration invoked Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023. This order prohibited the assembly of five or more people and the carrying of weapons or explosives. It also barred any acts of intimidation directed at voters or election officials. While Advisor Mhathung Yanthan and MLA Mhonbemo Humtsoe visited polling stations to monitor the situation, the prohibitory measures remain in force until further notice.
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