Morung Express News
Dimapur | February 27
Despite reports of violence, turmoil and proxy voting, the Election Commission in its press brief on Tuesday evening maintained that the election to the 13th NLA “passed off peacefully and smoothly with some sporadic incidents.
Addressing media personnel at the Conference Hall of AMK Building, Kohima on Tuesday evening, Nagaland Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Abhijit Sinha informed that the overall voter turnout on the day was 75% till 4:30pm.
This election saw a significant decrease in turnout when compared to the 2013 polls, which had registered 90% turnout.
Pughoboto election district registered the most voter turnout at 88%, followed by Mokokchung at 82% and Wokha at 81%. Dimapur and Peren meanwhile registered the least amount of voter turnout at 70% each, followed by the state capital Kohima at 72%, and Mon at 73%. (See Table) While polling in most of the stations started on time, the CEO informed that some polling parties reached their venues as late as 12:00 noon due to heavy rains worsening road conditions in those areas.
Polls were held in 59 assembly constituencies, with 11, 91,513 general voters (male 6, 01,707, Female 5, 89,806) and 5925 service electors exercising their franchise, as per the commission.
The CEO informed that polling parties have started coming back to their respective receipt centres in all 12 election districts, and that scrutiny would be conducted on February 28 at 11:00am.
With regard to complaints, the CEO stated that general observers and ROs will make recommendations, and action would be taken accordingly. “We are expecting reports, whatever recommendations ROs and observers give in the afternoon and thereafter it will be sent to ECI and decision will be taken,” he stated.
Counting of votes is scheduled to be held on March 3.
Re-polls likely in 6 booths
According to a report from IANS, the CEO informed that re-poll would be held in at least five booths - three in Phek district and two in Kohima. This will also include polling station No 1 Ladigarh, as polls had to be adjourned there. The CEO informed that polling parties were obstructed by Assam Police and they were unable to reach designated polling station. Decisions regarding re-polls would be taken either on March 1 or 2.
Both NDPP & NPF express confidence
Meanwhile the two major players—the NDPP-BJP alliance and the ruling NPF, have both expressed confidence on securing victories. "We are confident of emerging as the single largest party and will unseat the NPF from power in Nagaland," said NDPP Chief Ministerial candidate Neiphiu Rio to IANS.
However, incumbent Chief Minister TR Zeliang voiced confidence that the NPF will retain power. "We are confident we will emerge as the single-largest party on March 3 when votes are counted. We will retain power and lead the next government," Zeliang told IANS.
