‘2018 NLA election during –after- poll violence has set negative trends’

DIMAPUR, MARCH 24 (MExN): Two NGOs- the Naga Indigenous Women Network (NIWN) and Women in Governance (WinG) on Saturday voiced concern that the scenario of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly election 2018-during and after polls has witnessed grave situations and have set a negative trend.  

Besides widespread election extremes - such as money and muscle flexing, booth capturing, vandalism etc, in the aftermath of the just concluded election and announcement of results, there were wide spread violence, assault particularly on women.  

Most of the constituencies across Nagaland witnessed incidents of violence. Many families are reported to have been displaced, people ex- communicated from villages. There is fear psychosis, trauma, stress and particularly impacts women.  

In this regard, the NIWN and WinG in a joint sitting on March 24 in Kohima expressed unhappiness and concern over the rising crimes related to election. It also expressed deep concern and sadness for the unfortunate incidents of the physical assault on women.  

In this connection, NIWN and WinG has appealed the Nagaland government to create a peaceful atmosphere. The two NGOs have also requested the concern authority(s)-the village councils to repeal the ex-communication orders on humanitarian ground.  

It also appealed the district administrations to intervene and take up safety and security measures for victims of election related violence and to take into consideration that such rehabilitation and welfare measures should not discriminate victims on the basis of tribe, clan or community.  

NIWN and WinG also reiterated that every adult have their freedom of choice to vote. That, to force a voter under duress is a violation of human rights and therefore such ill- practices and violence as witnessed in this election 2018 should stop in future.  

Meanwhile, the NIWN and WinG expressed appreciation to the 5 (five) women candidates who have come out to face election. It also acknowledged the role of women and men - at community, village or district levels who have come out to intervene in preventing undesired situations.  

It is appreciated the constituencies where the slogan of free and fair election, one man / woman one vote were practiced in spirit and deed during the voting.  

Given the magnitude of election extremes - mal practices, money, power flexing, the NIWN and WinG felt that this is an eroding of indigenous tribal values and ethos. If such practices and systems continue the future elections are alarming, it added.