The scenario of the state election 2018 - during and after the polls, has witnessed a grave situation. Besides widespread election extremes - such as money and muscle flexing, booth capturing , vandalismetc, in the aftermath of the just concluded election and announcement of results, it has been reported through media and discussion sharings that there were wide spread violence, assault particularly on women.
Most of the constituencies across Nagaland witnessed incidents of violence. Many families are reported to have been displaced, people ex- communicated from villages. There is fear psychosis, trauma, stress and particularly impacts women.
In this regard, the Naga Indigenous Women Network ( NIWN) and Women in Governance ( WinG) take this matter seriously. Taking stock of the situation, NIWN and WinG in a joint sitting on March 24 in Kohima express unhapiness and concern in this rising crimes related to election. We express deep concern and sadness for the unfortunate incidents of the physical asault on women.
NIWN and WinG appeal to the government to create a peaceful atmosphere. We also request the concern authority( s) the village councils to repeal the ex-communication orders on humanitarian ground. We appeal the district administrations to intervene and take up safety and security measures for victims os election related violence. We request to take into consideration that such rehabilitation and welfare measures should not discriminate victims on the basis of tribe, clan or community.
NIWN and WinG would like to reiterate that every adult have their freedom of choice to vote. That, to force a voter under duress is a violation of human rights. NIWN and WinG would like to state that such ill- practices and violence as witnessed in this election 2018 should stop in future.
Meanwhile NIWN and WinG would like to express our appreciation to the 5 ( five) women candidates who have come out to face election. We also acknowledge the role of women and men - at community , village or district levels who have come out to intervene in preventing undesired situations. We encourage such goodwill and pro active role of such initiatives.
It is also learnt that there are constituencies where the slogan of free and fair election , one man / woman one vote are being practice in spirit and deed during the voting. NIWN and WinG would like to express our appreciation for the same.
Unlike other elections in Nagaland, NIWN and WinG observed that this 2018 election has witnesed a grave situation and sets a negative trend. Given the magnitude of election extremes - mal practices , money , power flexing. We feel that this election is not setting a good trend. If such practices and systems continues the future elections are alarming. NIWN and WinG feels that this is an eroding of indigenous tribal values and ethos. We feel that such trend and practices should no longer continue for the betterment of the new generation in particular and the society at large.
