NPP seeks re-poll in Alichen, claims ‘voter suppression’ in Koridang by-poll

DIMAPUR — The National People’s Party (NPP) has sought a re-poll in all polling stations under Alichen cluster in 28-Koridang Assembly Constituency, alleging large-scale voter suppression after turnout in the area dropped to 39.9%, far below neighbouring polling stations.

In a complaint submitted to the Election Commission of India, the party said that only 1,323 votes were cast out of 3,310 registered voters in Alichen, leaving nearly 60% of voters unable to exercise their franchise.

It stated that neighbouring polling areas recorded turnout figures ranging from over 70% to as high as 99%, and claimed that Alichen alone accounted for nearly half of the total uncast votes in the constituency, indicating a “clear and localised suppression” rather than a natural variation.

The party also pointed to specific polling stations where turnout reportedly dropped to as low as 15% and 23%, raising concerns that voters may have been prevented, intimidated or discouraged from voting.

Also read: Koridang keeps it calm under heavy vigil; records 82.21% voter turnout

The NPP alleged that the presence of IRB personnel created an atmosphere of fear among voters. It further claimed that polling was halted for nearly an hour during the day following actions by the ECI observer and district authorities, who conducted identity verification checks that disrupted voting.

According to the party, no corrective measures such as extension of polling hours were taken to offset the disruption, resulting in disenfranchisement of a significant section of voters, particularly rural voters, women, elderly citizens and daily wage earners.

Alleging misuse of state machinery, the party suggested that the developments may have been carried out in a partisan manner and could have influenced the electoral outcome, especially in the event of a narrow margin.

The NPP said it has submitted video evidence to the Election Commission to support its claims of polling disruption and administrative interference.

Invoking provisions relating to free and fair elections, the party demanded that polling in Alichen be declared vitiated and a re-poll conducted in all polling stations in the area. It also called for deployment of Central Armed Police Forces during the re-poll and sought a thorough inquiry into the role of security personnel, election observers and district administration, along with preservation and examination of all relevant records.