Dimapur, Nagaland – The State Election Commission of Nagaland has taken the unprecedented step of invalidating the election held on June 26 at Polling Station No. 4 under Ward 20 of the Dimapur Municipal Council. This decision, made under Section 31(1) of the Nagaland Municipal Act, 2023, and Rule 66(a) of the Nagaland Municipal Election Rules, 2023, comes following a thorough review of circumstances surrounding the polling process.
The invalidation was prompted by concerns raised over the conduct of the election at Polling Station No. 4, which serves areas including the Circuit House Area, W/W- Ura Villa, Circuit House & Imkonglenden Colony. The State Election Commission based its decision on a detailed report submitted by the Returning Officer of the Dimapur Municipal Council, citing significant irregularities that warranted corrective action.
In response to these findings, the Commission has scheduled a fresh poll to be held on June 28, with voting hours set from 7:30 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Authorities have been directed to ensure widespread notification of the rescheduled election in the affected areas. This includes comprehensive outreach efforts to inform voters, political parties, and contesting candidates about the revised polling date and voting procedures.
“This decision underscores our commitment to upholding the integrity and fairness of the electoral process,” stated a spokesperson from the State Election Commission. “We urge all stakeholders to cooperate in ensuring that the fresh poll is conducted smoothly and transparently.”
The announcement of the fresh poll has elicited varied reactions from local residents and political circles, with many expressing concern over the implications of the invalidated election and the need for heightened vigilance in future electoral activities. As preparations for the rescheduled poll commence, the State Election Commission remains focused on restoring confidence in the electoral process and safeguarding democratic principles in Dimapur.