1. CEO acts against ENPO’s indefinite shutdown during Nagaland elections.
2. Shutdown sparks concerns over electoral process interference.
3. Shutdown effective from April 18 raises alarms ahead of Nagaland Lok Sabha polling.
Kohima, April 19: Amidst the Nagaland Lok Sabha elections, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) has taken a decisive step against the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organization (ENPO) for its indefinite total shutdown across Eastern Nagaland’s jurisdiction.
Effective from 6 p.m. on April 18, the shutdown raised alarm bells over its potential impact on the electoral process on the eve of polling for Nagaland’s lone Lok Sabha seat.
In response, the CEO’s office issued a stern show-cause notice to the ENPO president, citing Section 171C of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, questioning the legitimacy of such action. The CEO views the shutdown as a possible attempt to exert undue influence during a critical phase of the elections.
While the circular from the Eastern Nagaland Public Emergency Control Room (ENPECR) exempted certain groups from the bandh, including government officials on election duty, district administration, security forces, medical services, and essential public services, concerns persist regarding its potential to hinder voting rights in Eastern Nagaland.
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Section 171C of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860 defines any voluntary interference with the free exercise of electoral rights as undue influence at an election. The notice, directed at the president of ENPO, underscores their role and authority over the ENPECR.
The CEO’s directive for a prompt response to the show-cause notice highlights the gravity of the situation and emphasizes the need for a fair and transparent electoral process.
It aims to ensure the unhindered exercise of voting rights for all residents in Eastern Nagaland during the Lok Sabha elections scheduled for April 19, 2024.
The president of ENPO is expected to address the concerns outlined in the notice promptly, acknowledging the potential interference in the electoral process.
