1 killed in Koridang pre-poll violence, night curfew imposed

Dimapur: One person lost his life in pre-poll violence at Longkhum village in Koridang assembly constituency under Mokokchung district, following a clash between supporters of rival candidates late Sunday night.Polling for the bye-election in the constituency will take place on April 9.Nagaland deputy CM Y Patton, who also holds the home portfolio, strongly condemned the death of Imrongsungba Imchen in the pre-poll violence in Longkhum village.He expressed deep sorrow at the passing of Imchen, who succumbed to his injuries while being referred for medical treatment.Patton said violence has no place in a democratic process, adding that elections must remain a platform for the expression of the people’s will and not become a source of fear, anger, or division.He said such incidents weaken public trust and disturb the sense of unity among communities.Patton urged all citizens of the Koridang constituency, across political affiliations, to remain calm and exercise restraint.Meanwhile, Mokokchung district magistrate Ajit Kumar Verma today imposed night curfew within the jurisdiction of Longkhum village, Mangmetonq village and Alichen area, including 2 NAP camp, under the constituency, from 6 pm to a am with immediate effect till further orders.

In an order, Verama said there is a likelihood of breach of public peace and tranquility within the jurisdiction of Longkhum village, Mangmetong village and Alichen area, which may endanger human life and property.Based on the report received from Mokokchung sector magistrates and Sr. SP on careful examination of the prevailing law and order situation, Verma said 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.The order said assembly of five or more persons will remain strictly prohibited within the jurisdiction of these areas. Police, armed forces, security personnel, magistrates and government officials on official/election duty, medical personnel, ambulance, and emergency services and individuals engaged in emergency services/essential services have been exempted from the purview of the prohibition.Considering the urgency of the matter, the order has been passed ex parte, Verma added.