To conduct a free & fair election and to maintain a peaceful atmosphere during the forthcoming General Election to Nagaland Legislative Assembly 2023, the Deputy Commissioner & District Election Officer, Longleng Dharam Raj issued an order concerning Article 326 of the constitution of India which grants Universal Adult Suffrage to every eligible Indian citizen, Rule 39 of the Conduct of Election 1961 which directs to maintain the secrecy of vote by electors, and Section 135A of Representatives of People Act 1951 on offense of Booth Capturing provides - whoever commits an offense of booth capturing shall be permissible with imprisonment for a term which shall not be less than one year but which may extend for three years and with fine. 

Besides, an open declaration of support in favor of a particular candidate/political party by a village/ward/Khel or community through a public announcement and even publication in electronic/print media, etc violates the above provisions.

Therefore, it is reiterated that any village or ward or community or group of people, or Media house found violating or defying the said provisions in connection with the upcoming General Election to Nagaland Legislative Assembly, 2023, appropriate legal action shall be initiated against the violator(s) in the interest of free, fair, transparent Election and administering social order.

(DPRO Longleng)