Nagaland Lok Sabha Election 2024: Boycotts in 6 Districts Over Separate Territory Demand

The Chief Election Officer of the north-eastern state has issued a notice to the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) for allegedly disrupting the electoral process. According to the official statement, the ENPO is accused of trying to unduly influence the residents of Eastern Nagaland areas in the general election.

The officer has directed the ENPO to show cause as to why action under Section 171C of the Indian Penal Code should not be initiated, which pertains to interfering with the free exercise of any electoral right. The ENPO, on the other hand, has defended its actions, stating that the shutdown in the Eastern Nagaland region was a voluntary initiative by the people and not coercively enforced by the organization or any other authority.

They emphasized that the region is under a Public Emergency, and the decision to abstain from the Lok Sabha election reflects the sentiments and aspirations of the people advocating for their rights within the democratic framework. The ENPO held a closed-door meeting with 20 MLAs and other organizations, reiterating their decision to abstain from the election.

This decision was supported by the Eastern Nagaland Legislators’ Union, comprising the 20 MLAs, but it was urged to reconsider by the Union. The ENPO has previously withdrawn a similar abstention call after an assurance from Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

It is important to note that Nagaland has one Lok Sabha seat, held by the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP), an ally of the BJP. Finally, the ENPO stated its willingness to cooperate with the Election Commission to address any misunderstandings or misinterpretations.