Congress alleges withholding of voter slips by council members

DIMAPUR — The president of the Dimapur District Congress Committee (DDCC), Kutuho Chishi, alleged on Saturday that some gaon buras (GBs) and council members are withholding voter information slips from colony members.

He appealed to the law enforcement authorities to ensure that the concerned GBs and council members distribute the voter slips as required. He made this claim during a programme themed ‘Know your candidates,’ organised by the DDCC.

The event, held at Hotel Saramati in Dimapur, featured the Indian National Congress (INC) candidates for the urban local body (ULB) elections from three districts: Dimapur, Chümoukedima, and Niuland.

He also alleged that some ruling party workers are threatening and buying voter slips, especially from non-Nagas. He emphasised that this should not be allowed and should be strictly checked.

Appealing to all voters with voting rights to collect their voter slips to prevent misuse, he claimed that during elections, legislators, along with their teams, visit polling stations and cast unfair votes. He therefore asserted that the returning officers should strictly check to ensure such activities do not happen.

On election day, he also appealed to the GBs and council members to check and allow only identified and authentic voters from their wards, without taking any favours, to ensure the election can be conducted peacefully.

Responding to claims that Congress will not get schemes and funds as they are not in power both at the centre and in the state, Akokla Pongen, INC candidate from ward 13 for the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) elections, said that when it comes to central schemes, it all depends on the elected person. She asserted that if they have the capability, bringing in schemes is not very difficult.

Candidates present ward development plans

Fourteen candidates outlined their visions on the occasion for their respective wards, with two unable to attend.

Khetohoili Sema (East DTC ward 7) plans to establish a dispensary, focus on old age pension scheme, and support persons with disabilities. Apale Thopi (DMC ward 4) aims to assist vulnerable groups and address development needs.

Tsutimenla Jamir (DMC ward 10) will focus on addressing residents’ needs. Akokla Pongen (DMC ward 13) targets road improvements, waste management, and women’s empowerment.

Caroline Chawang (DMC ward 14) envisions youth and women empowerment and improved drainage. Khetoli Labho (DMC ward 6) aims to provide water, toilets, and security cameras, and to control activities in the Hongkong Market relating to illegal taxation.

Kuhoto I Awomi (NTC ward 8) seeks comprehensive development and advocacy for rights. J Imlitemsu (CTC ward 9) promises to make his ward a model if elected.

Khrozote Kapfo (DMC ward 8) focuses on upgrading water, street lights, roads, and cleanliness, and providing school buses. Pretso Therie (CTC ward 11) emphasizes development, community work, and rehabilitation centres to combat substance abuse.

Imeangba Ao (East DTC ward 9) plans to improve roads, drainage, and water facilities. Akhevi Yeptho (DMC ward 23) commits to humanitarian work.

Also read: Nagaland ULB polls 2024: 523 candidates in fray for 214 seats