The Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate of Mokokchung, Ajit Kumar Verma, has imposed a night curfew in parts of the district under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, citing a likelihood of breach of public peace ahead of the by-election to the 28 Koridang Assembly Constituency.
According to an official order issued on Monday, April 6, the curfew has been enforced in Longkhum village, Mangmetong village and the Alichen area, including the 2nd NAP Camp. The order stated that reports from Sector Magistrates and the Senior Superintendent of Police indicated a potential threat to public tranquility that could endanger human life and property.
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The order noted that with the Model Code of Conduct in force throughout Mokokchung district, maintaining law and order is essential to ensure that the by-election is conducted in a free, fair and peaceful manner. “I am satisfied that immediate preventive measures are necessary to prevent any breach to public peace and tranquility and ensure maintenance of public order within the jurisdiction of Longkhum Village, Mangmetong Village and Alichen area (including 2nd NAP Camp),” the District Magistrate stated in the order.
Under the restrictions, assembly of five or more persons has been prohibited within the notified areas. The ‘night curfew’ will remain in force daily from 6:00 pm to 5:00 am until further orders.
Exemptions have been granted to police, armed forces and security personnel on duty, magistrates and government officials on official or election duty, as well as medical personnel, ambulance services and individuals engaged in essential or emergency services.
The order has come into effect immediately. The administration has warned that any violation will attract prosecution under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (NBS), 2023, and other relevant legal provisions.
