The National People’s Party has urged the Election Commission of India to order a re-poll in Koridang by-election booths, alleging voter suppression and irregularities.
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DIMAPUR — The National People’s Party (NPP) on Monday issued an urgent reminder to the Election Commission of India (ECI), citing non-response to its earlier complaint on alleged voter suppression in 28-Koridang assembly constituency and pressing for a limited re-poll in two affected polling stations.
In its letter to the Chief Election Commissioner, the party stated that it had received no response to its April 9 complaint despite submitting documentary and video evidence of “grave irregularities” in Alichen polling cluster.
The NPP identified Alichen Polling Stations II and IV as the worst affected, recording voter turnout of around 15% and 23% respectively—figures it described as “grossly abnormal” and “statistically indefensible,” even when compared within the same cluster.
Related: NPP seeks re-poll in Alichen, claims ‘voter suppression’ in Koridang by-poll
According to the party, the two booths witnessed a “complete breakdown” of the polling process due to a combination of factors, including a mid-day halt in voting linked to additional Aadhaar and voter ID verification, alleged interference by an ECI observer and district administration, and an “intimidatory” security environment due to the presence of India Reserve Battalion (IRB) personnel.
It further alleged that authorities failed to extend polling hours or restore voter confidence, leading to sharply reduced voter participation.
Also read: Koridang keeps it calm under heavy vigil; records 82.21% voter turnout
Citing Article 324 of the Constitution and provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, the NPP maintained that the ECI is duty-bound to ensure free and fair elections and is empowered to order re-poll in cases where polling is vitiated by obstruction, interference or intimidation.
It also called for a time-bound inquiry into the role of the ECI observer, district administration and IRB personnel, and sought directions for preservation of videography, presiding officers’ diaries and poll records.
Warning of legal action, the NPP stated that it would approach the High Court under Article 226 if no action is taken within 48 hours.