Kohima, April 7 Campaigning for the Koridang (ST) Assembly by-election in Nagaland ended on Tuesday amidst a tense political atmosphere following reports of violence over the past 48 hours, officials said.
Officials said at least one person died, several were injured, multiple vehicles were damaged, and 16 people were detained in connection with election-related violence on Sunday and Monday.
Firearms and ammunition were also recovered, raising concerns about law and order. A curfew has been imposed in three villages of the constituency.
Meanwhile, leaders from major parties participated in the campaigns. National People's Party president Conrad K. Sangma campaigned for candidate I Abenjang, while BJP leaders, led by Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton, supported the PDA consensus candidate, Daochier I Imchen.
Congress leaders, including AICC in-charge Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka and state unit president MP S. Supongmeren Jamir, backed candidate T. Chalukumba Ao.
Chief Electoral Officer Bhagyashree Banayat has enforced a strict silence period after 4 pm on Tuesday, prohibiting all forms of campaigning, including rallies, meetings, and the distribution of election materials.
She also directed all non-local political workers to leave the constituency, while the district administration and police have intensified surveillance to ensure compliance and prevent further disturbances.
The by-election was necessitated by the death of BJP's Imkong L. Imchen, a five-time MLA, on November 11 at the age of 75.
Six candidates are contesting the by-election to the Koridang seat under Mokokchung district.
Polling is scheduled for April 9, while the votes will be counted on May 4.