Political activity is intensifying ahead of the April 9 by-election to the 28-Koridang (ST) Assembly Constituency, with key developments emerging across party lines.
Imchatoba Imchen has stepped down as president of the NPF Central Youth Wing. Following his resignation, Süpoyi Vezhu, the senior-most among the working presidents, has been appointed Acting President with immediate effect, according to party sources.
The development comes amid growing speculation over candidates for the by-election, with political parties yet to formally announce their nominees.
Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has initiated internal consultations ahead of the polls. Party spokesperson and in-charge of Nagaland and Meghalaya, Anil K Antony, said discussions are underway with state leaders and allies, including the Naga People’s Front (NPF).
Antony, who arrived in Dimapur today told reporters that the final decision on the party’s candidate will be taken by the BJP’s Central Election Committee.
“They have given their opinions, but the final decision will be taken by the Central Election Committee,” he said. It may be noted that 11 BJP legislators had submitted recommendations for Daochier I Imchen, son of Imkong L Imchen.
Antony further added that the party functions democratically, allowing members, including legislators, to express their views before a final decision is made by the central leadership.
The Central Election Committee includes Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and the BJP national president, among others.
ECI takes control of police personnel for election duty
In a parallel administrative development, the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer, Nagaland has placed all police personnel connected with election duties under the control of the Election Commission of India (ECI).
According to an official notification, all ranks of the Nagaland Police from Director General to field-level personnel, including Home Guards and Village Guards have been designated as election officials under Section 28A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
The order applies to officers within the jurisdiction of the 28-Koridang Assembly Constituency and will remain in force from the date of election notification until the completion of the electoral process.
During this period, such personnel will be deemed to be on deputation to the ECI and will function under its “control, superintendence and discipline,” and will be accountable to the Commission for any lapses in duty.
The by-election to the 28-Koridang (ST) Assembly Constituency in Mokokchung district is scheduled to be held on April 9.