Kohima, April 6 (MExN): Political leaders and parties across Nagaland have condemned the Koridang Bye-election related violence at Longkhum village that claimed the life of one Imrongsungba Imchen.
Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton expressed sorrow over the loss of life and said violence has no place in a democratic process.
“Elections must remain a platform for the expression of the people’s will, and not become a source of fear, anger, or division,” Patton stated, adding that such incidents weaken public trust and disturb the sense of unity among communities.
The Dy CM urged all citizens of the Koridang constituency, across political affiliations, to remain calm and exercise restraint. He appealed to the public to work together to ensure that the upcoming bye-election is conducted in a peaceful and orderly manner.
BJP candidate Daochir Imchen expressed grief over the incident, stating, “Deeply saddened by the tragic loss of my dear friend Imrongsungba Imchen, whose life was cruelly cut short in the senseless poll-related violence at Longkhum.” He said the death was “not merely a personal loss but a wound to the conscience of our society,” adding, “No political rivalry, no difference in ideology, can ever justify such barbarity.”
“When violence supplants dialogue, democracy itself is diminished,” he said, while expressing solidarity with the bereaved family. He added, “May his gentle soul rest in eternal peace, and may justice be served.”
In a statement, the BJP Nagaland unit said it was “profoundly shocked” and “unequivocally condemns the brutal and senseless act of violence” at Longkhum village which resulted in the death of “one of our dedicated supporters, Imrongsunba Imchen.”
“Violence in any form has absolutely no place in a civilized and democratic society,” the party stated, adding that it “has always stood firmly for peace, rule of law, and democratic principles.” It termed the incident “deeply unfortunate,” stating that it has “tarnished the image of the Koridang constituency” and brought “immense disrepute to Mokokchung district as a whole.”
The BJP further appealed to 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.” It reiterated its commitment to “peaceful, free, and fair elections” and urged citizens and party workers to “reject violence in all its forms and uphold the values of democracy, unity, and harmony,” while extending condolences to the bereaved family.
Meanwhile, NPP candidate I Abenjang announced that his campaign would cease in Longkhum village as a mark of respect. “We have lost one of our own—a son of Longkhum. In his memory, and as a mark of our deepest respect, we are officially ceasing all campaign activities in Longkhum village,” he said.
“I strongly condemn the violence that has taken place between party workers of the BJP and the Independent candidate. Such acts have no place in our society or in our democratic process. Elections must never cost a human life,” he stated. He also appealed to supporters to “remain calm, maintain peace, and honour the departed with dignity,” adding, “Let Longkhum be remembered for its strength, restraint, and unity.”
NPP President Conrad K Sangma also expressed condolences, stating, “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.”
“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 said. He further appealed to all to “remain calm, uphold peace, and honour the departed with dignity,” and called for unity and prayer for “the restoration of harmony in Longkhum.”
