The death of a man injured in election-related violence in Longkhum village under the 28 Koridang Assembly Constituency has triggered strong reactions from political leaders and parties, who have condemned the incident and called for peace and restraint.
According to official reports, clashes between supporters of BJP candidate Daochier I Imchen and Independent candidate Toshikaba on April 5 led to injuries. One of the injured, Imrongsungba Imchen, later succumbed to his injuries while being taken outside the district for further treatment.
Police have registered an FIR and initiated action under relevant laws.
Conrad Sangma condemns violence, appeals for peace
Chief Minister of Meghalaya and National President of the National People’s Party (NPP), Conrad K Sangma expressed grief over the incident and extended condolences to the bereaved family.
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Shri Imrongsungba Imchen. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones during this time of grief,” he said.
Condemning the violence, he stated, “Violence has no place in our democracy. I strongly condemn the incidents that have led to this loss of life and the suffering of many others. Elections must be a celebration of the people’s will, not a cause for fear or bloodshed.”
He appealed for calm, saying, “At this moment, I appeal to all to remain calm, uphold peace, and honour the departed with dignity,” and called for unity and prayers for restoration of harmony.
Patton condemns Longkhum pre-poll violence, calls for calm and peaceful by-election
Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister and BJP leader Y Patton has condemned the violence in Longkhum village that led to the death of Imrongsungba Imchen, and called for peace ahead of the by-election.
In a statement posted on X, Patton said, “Strongly condemn the tragic loss of life following a pre-poll violence in Longkhum. The passing of Shri Imrongsungba Imchen, who succumbed to his injuries while being referred for treatment, is deeply distressing.” He extended condolences to the bereaved family and wished for the speedy recovery of those injured.
Emphasizing the need for restraint, he stated, “Violence has no place in a democratic process. Elections are a platform for the people’s voice, not a battleground for fear, anger, or division.” He added that such incidents weaken public trust and disrupt community unity.
Patton urged citizens across political affiliations in the Koridang constituency to remain calm, stating, “I urge all citizens of Koridang constituency, across all political affiliations, to remain calm and exercise restraint.” He also called for collective efforts to ensure that the upcoming by-election is conducted in a peaceful and orderly manner.
BJP condemns killing, seeks action
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Nagaland expressed “profound shock” and “unequivocally condemns the brutal and senseless act of violence” that led to the death of its supporter.
The party said, “Violence in any form has absolutely no place in a civilized and democratic society,” and stressed its commitment to peace and democratic principles. It described the incident as a “grim contradiction” to public calls for peaceful campaigning and said it has tarnished the image of the constituency and Mokokchung district.
The BJP urged authorities to “act with urgency, thoroughly investigate the incident, apprehend all those involved, and ensure that the perpetrators are awarded the strictest punishment as per the law of the land,” while appealing for peace and unity.
Abenjang halts campaign in Longkhum
NPP candidate I Abenjang announced that all campaign activities in Longkhum would be stopped as a mark of respect.
“Today, my heart is heavy. We have lost one of our own-a son of Longkhum,” he said, adding that “in his memory, and as a mark of our deepest respect, we are officially ceasing all campaign activities in Longkhum village.”
He extended condolences and said, “No words can truly ease your pain, but please know that you are not alone in this grief.”
Condemning the violence, he stated, “Such acts have no place in our society or in our democratic process. Elections must never cost a human life.” He urged supporters to “remain calm, maintain peace, and honour the departed with dignity,” and called for unity.
Imtiwapang calls for justice
Independent candidate Imtiwapang also expressed grief and condemned the incident.
“I am deeply saddened to learn about the tragic loss of Shri. Imrongsungba Imchen under such outrageous circumstances,” he said, adding that the loss is profound for both the family and the community.
He stated, “I strongly condemn this cowardly act of violence. Such incidents have no place in a democratic society,” and called for accountability, saying those responsible “must be brought to justice.”
He noted that the deceased leaves behind a wife and a daughter, adding, “I extent my heartfelt condolence to his family and I pray that they find strength and solace during this extremely difficult time.”