Historic Civic Polls Kick Off in Nagaland Amid Tight Security

Nagaland's historic civic polls began on Wednesday for 25 urban bodies after a 20-year gap, featuring 33% women reservation. Despite tight security, the polling proceeded smoothly. Over 2.23 lakh voters are eligible to vote. However, the Eastern Nagaland Peoples' Organisation abstained, demanding a separate 'Frontier Nagaland Territory.'

Polling for elections to 25 civic bodies in Nagaland commenced on Wednesday morning under stringent security measures, according to an official from the State Election Commission (SEC).

This marks a historic moment for the northeastern state as it is the first civic election in 20 years, covering three municipalities and 22 town councils, and notably featuring 33 per cent women reservation, per SEC's statement.

Previous government efforts to conduct urban local body elections were repeatedly stalled due to objections from tribal bodies and civil society groups. Reservations for women and land tax were key points of contention.

Voting started at 7:30 am and will continue until 4 pm. An SEC official confirmed that polling has been peaceful so far with increased security measures. About 2.23 lakh voters, including 1,13,521 women, are eligible to cast their votes to determine the fate of 523 candidates from 11 political parties, the official added. Voting is being conducted through ballot papers across 420 polling stations.

However, the Eastern Nagaland Peoples' Organisation (ENPO) decided against participating. The ENPO, representing seven Naga tribes in six eastern districts, has long been advocating for a 'Frontier Nagaland Territory,' citing sustained neglect. While 59 nominations from ENPO areas were accepted, tribal bodies forced the withdrawal of these nominations.

ENPO also abstained from voting in the April 19 Lok Sabha elections for the state's sole parliamentary seat.

(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)