Nagaland's Koridang Bypoll: A Fierce Contest with Six Candidates Amid Tensions
Synopsis
The Koridang Assembly by-election in Nagaland has emerged as a competitive battleground, featuring six candidates, including seasoned politicians and first-timers, amid a backdrop of violence and heightened tensions.
Key Takeaways
Competitive landscape: Six candidates are contesting for the Koridang seat.
Tense atmosphere: Recent violence has cast a shadow over the electoral process.
Political significance: The by-election may influence future political alignments in Nagaland.
Safety measures: Authorities are implementing curfews and security protocols to ensure fair elections.
Voter demographics: A considerable number of eligible voters, including a significant female electorate.
Kohima, April 8 (NationPress) The by-election for the Koridang Assembly seat in Nagaland's Mokokchung district has evolved into a competitive multi-candidate showdown, featuring two seasoned politicians alongside four newcomers.
This by-election was prompted by the passing of the sitting MLA, Imkong L. Imchen, who died on November 11, 2024, in a private hospital in Guwahati after a short illness at the age of 75.
The ruling People’s Democratic Alliance (PDA) has nominated Daochier I. Imchen of the BJP as its consensus candidate; he is the son of the deceased legislator.
Notable opponents include I. Abenjang from the National People’s Party (NPP) and T. Chalukumba Ao representing the Congress party.
Additionally, three Independent candidates—Imchatoba Imchen, Imtiwapang Kichu, and Major Toshikaba (Retd)—are contesting, which heightens the electoral competition.
Chalukumba Ao has previously run for office three times (2013, 2018, and 2023) but unfortunately did not secure a win, while Major Toshikaba (Retd) narrowly lost in the 2023 election while representing the Naga People’s Front (NPF).
The late Imchen was a distinguished politician, having been elected to the Nagaland Assembly five times—initially as an Independent in 2003, then on NPF tickets in 2008, 2013, and 2018, and finally as a BJP candidate in 2023.
The constituency comprises 22,390 eligible voters, including 11,013 women.
Campaign activities for the Koridang Assembly by-election, reserved for Scheduled Tribes, concluded on Tuesday amidst a tense climate following violence reported on April 5 and 6.
A police official reported that at least one individual was killed, numerous others injured, several vehicles damaged, and 16 people detained due to campaign-related violence. Weapons and ammunition were discovered at various sites, prompting authorities to enforce a night curfew in three villages within the constituency.
Prominent leaders from major political entities actively rallied for their candidates. National People’s Party President and Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma supported his party's nominee, while BJP officials, led by Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton, backed Imchen. Congress leaders, including state in-charge Saptagiri Sankar Ulaka and state President S. Supongmeren Jamir, who is also a Lok Sabha member, campaigned for Chalukumba Ao.
Chief Electoral Officer Bhagyashree Banayat assured that all necessary precautions are being taken to ensure the bypoll is conducted fairly and transparently.
Point of View
The Koridang by-election reflects the political dynamics and challenges within Nagaland. The presence of multiple candidates and the reported tensions highlight the significance of this electoral battle, which could impact future political landscapes in the region.
NationPress
11 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the by-election in Koridang?
The by-election was necessitated by the death of the sitting MLA, Imkong L. Imchen, on November 11, 2024.
Who are the main candidates in the Koridang bypoll?
The main candidates include Daochier I. Imchen (BJP), I. Abenjang (NPP), T. Chalukumba Ao (Congress), and three Independents.
What is the voter demographic in Koridang?
The constituency has 22,390 eligible voters, with 11,013 being women.
What safety measures are in place for the election?
Authorities have imposed a night curfew in three villages and are ensuring all necessary measures for a free and fair election.
What happened during the recent campaign leading up to the bypoll?
Reports indicated violence, resulting in one death and multiple injuries, which has created a tense atmosphere for the upcoming election.
