DIMAPUR — The coordination meeting for Mangkolemba Town Council (MTC), Mokokchung district, was held at the customary law court, Mangkolemba on the June 19.
Additional deputy commissioner and returning officer (RO) of Mangkolemba, T Lankonsen Tsanglao, who chaired the meeting, highlighted on the significance of the meeting as Mangkolemba town would be participating in a town council election for the first time since its official recognition, stated a DIPR report.
The ADC underscored the importance of municipal elections, calling for a fair and peaceful process to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to compete. Tsanglao also emphasised the need for a level playing field and a tranquil environment to facilitate a free and fair election in Mangkolemba.
SDO (C) and ARO, Hotulo Sema reiterated the timeless value of humanity, encouraging everyone to maintain a positive mind-set to avoid discord in society. He also advised candidates to adhere to the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) and other election regulations, similar to standard general elections, to ensure a successful and cooperative process.
Emphasizing the importance of urban residents adopting a new mind-set and perspective when selecting their candidate, EAC of Longchem and sector magistrate, N Orenthung Kikon urged the public to be mindful of specific procedures that voters must adhere to on the day of the election.
Sub-divisional police officer of Mangkolemba, Rishamo Phillip Yanthan urged the public to promptly report any disruptions during the election process and to remain vigilant in preventing fraudulent voting practices.
He also highlighted the new provisions of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita Act 2023, which has replaced the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Bhartiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita Act 2023, which will replace the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), and the Motor Vehicle Act.
The meeting featured speeches from the ward representatives, representatives of candidate, NGOs, and goanburas. The purpose of the gathering was to improve collaboration for the upcoming town council election in order to facilitate a seamless election process.
The event was attended by candidates, ward chairpersons, dobashis, goanburas and representatives from civil societies.
Demonstration on proper usage of ballot papers
Meanwhile EAC of Longchem and sector magistrate, Mangkolemba, N Orenthung Kikon demonstrated the proper usage of ballot papers in preparation for the forthcoming town council election at Government Primary School, Mangkolemba, on Thursday
The demonstration was held concurrently with the distribution of Voter's Information Slip (VIS), a DIPR report stated.
The EAC informed that the VIS serves as a helpful document for voters by providing essential information such as their polling station, serial number, and voting dates.
“It is important to note that although the VIS offers convenience, it does not function as a form of identification and thus cannot be utilised to gain access to the polling station for voting purposes,” the report added.