The last date for nomination withdrawal for the 28 Koridang Assembly constituency bypoll was today, and six candidates remain in the fray. Only the standby candidate withdrew, leaving the contest unchanged.
The candidates in the fray include Daochier I Imchen (BJP), Abenjang (NPP), T Chalokumba Ao (INC), and Independent candidates Imtiwapang Kichu, Major Toshikaba (Retd) and Imchatoba Imchen.
The candidates include three from Chungtia, two from Mangmetong, and one from Longkhum. Most villages have declared free polls, with no ‘consensus’ candidate – a scenario considered rare in Koridang. Observers say the bypoll presents a relatively open contest, provided the elections are conducted fairly.
Security measures have been strengthened in sensitive areas. While brief tense situations flared up in some pockets, authorities reported that security personnel intervened promptly, ensuring the overall situation remained under control.
CEO notifies activation of Control Room
The Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Nagaland has informed that the Control Room in connection with the by-election to the Nagaland legislative Assembly from 28 Koridang Assembly Constituency has been activated.
The notification stated that all queries related to election matters, as well as complaints regarding violation of the Model Code of Conduct, may be communicated through the toll free helpline number 1950. In addition, the public may contact the State Control Room at 8787725554 and the District Control Room at 8787890205 or 03692 225015.
Abenjang declares candidature in Longkhum, appeals for unity
A benjang formally declared his candidature in Longkhum village today, 26 March, urging villagers to come together and participate in the upcoming election with a spirit of unity.
Addressing the gathering, Abenjang made an emotional appeal to the people of Longkhum, saying that his campaign would focus on love, cooperation, and bringing the community together.
He emphasized that while politics often divides, his intention was to campaign with care and consideration for every resident.
“I want to participate in this election under the theme ‘love’,” he told villagers. “We have the potential to achieve so much if we come together. Let us put aside differences and work for the betterment of Longkhum.”
He said he does not like to win with broken homes and violence. He called upon the Longkhum villagers to come together this time and ensure a political revival. He also dismissed rumors that he was sent by Daochier I Imchen. Abenjang’s declaration marks the beginning of his official electoral campaign in Longkhum.
The candidate’s message comes at a time when Longkhum has experienced divisions on various local issues, making his appeal for togetherness particularly significant.
Speakers, who were village representatives, also urged the villagers to come together for the love of Longkhum.
NPP vice president Vevoyi Wideo announced that on March 31, NPP president and Chief Minister Conrad Sangma is set to visit Longkhum to campaign for Abenjang. Calling him “the future of Longkhum village” and “the future of Koridang,” Wideo said that the NPP is contesting the election as a party that stands for tribal people.
He further said that this election is not about whether a candidate wins or loses, but whether Longkhum succeeds.
Well-wishers, including the Unity Village Council Chairman, also campaigned for Abenjang.
Independent candidate Imchatoba Imchen receives ‘Bricks’ symbol
Independent candidate Imchatoba Imchen received his election symbol, ‘Bricks,’ and formally announced his candidature today, March 26.
According to Imchen, with the ending of the last date of nomination, he hopes the air is cleared. “All the six of us will now fight till the end,” he said.
Imchatoba, from Mangmetong village, has been active in student, youth, and public organizations, including serving as President of the Naga Students’ Federation and as an Executive Member of the Asia Pacific Students and Youth Association (APSYA). In politics, he has held leadership positions in the Central Youth Organisation of NDPP and the Central Youth Wing of NPF, Nagaland.
At his announcement, Imchatoba outlined campaign priorities including youth and women empowerment, creating employment opportunities, strengthening the role of students and youth, and local socio-economic development. With the symbol officially allotted, he will begin engaging with voters across the constituency in the coming weeks.
NBCC, district administration convene Clean Election Movement
The Nagaland Baptist Church Council in collaboration with the District Administration Mokokchung has convened an interaction and fellowship programme with the Deputy Commissioner and staff on the Clean Election Movement at the DC Conference Hall on March 26.
In his introductory address, Rev. Dr. Mar Pongener, General Secretary, NBCC, stated that the gathering was not merely a formal programme but a platform for dialogue, partnership, and shared responsibility. He said the Clean Election Movement is an initiative undertaken by NBCC to bring about social transformation by addressing challenges associated with elections in Nagaland. He added that the movement seeks to awaken the conscience of stakeholders, including voters, leaders, civil society, and institutions, and emphasised the need for collective effort and cooperation.
Dr. Villo Naleo, Secretary, Social Concern Department, NBCC, presented on the vision, objectives, and strategies of the movement, outlining its roadmap for social transformation.
Deputy Commissioner and DEO Mokokchung, Ajit Kumar Verma, appreciated the initiative and said it could contribute to ensuring clean, fair, and peaceful elections. He noted that while laws serve as preventive measures, meaningful change requires collective participation.
Rev. Temsu Jamir, Executive Secretary, ABAM, also spoke, expressing confidence that the movement would have a positive impact on society.
The programme was chaired by Bideno Kikon, while the benediction was pronounced by Katoli V. Sumi.
Second randomization of EVMs set for March 27
The Chief Electoral Officer has issued instructions regarding the second randomization of EVMs and VVPATs for the forthcoming by-election to the 28-Koridang Assembly Constituency.
The second randomization will be carried out by the Returning Officer to allocate EVMs and VVPATs to polling stations through the EVM Management System developed by the Election Commission of India. Detailed guidelines are available in the Manual on Electronic Voting Machines on the Election Commission of India website.
According to the schedule, the second randomization for the 28-Koridang Assembly Constituency will be conducted on March 27, while the preparation of EVMs and VVPATs will take place on March 30.
The process will be conducted in the presence of contesting candidates or their representatives to ensure transparency.
Lists of EVMs and VVPATs allocated polling station-wise, along with reserve machines, will be shared with all contesting candidates. Only these allocated machines will be used at the respective polling stations on the day of poll.
Second phase of training for polling personnel held in Mokokchung
The second phase of training for polling personnel under Mokokchung district for the forthcoming by-election to the 28 Koridang Assembly Constituency has been held at Mayangnokcha Government Higher Secondary School, Mokokchung on March 26.
While briefing the trainees, ADC Mokokchung, Atsung Walling, urged them to remain sincere and attentive during the training so as to perform their assigned duties effectively.
