Historic Urban Local Bodies Elections in Nagaland

A total of 669 candidates, including 238 women, have filed nominations for the upcoming Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) elections in Nagaland. This historic election, scheduled for June 26, marks the first time 33% reservation for women will be implemented. The votes will be counted on June 29.

A total of 669 candidates filed their nominations for the upcoming Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) elections in Nagaland, set to take place on June 26.

According to the State Election Commission, the nominations include 238 women, and were filed across three municipal councils and 36 town councils. The last day for nominations was Tuesday, with scrutiny scheduled for Thursday, and June 18 being the final date for withdrawal.

After two decades, these elections are historic as they will feature 33% reservation for women for the first time. Previous attempts to hold elections were hampered by objections from tribal bodies regarding women's reservation and taxes on land and properties, citing infringement on special rights under Article 371(A) of the Constitution.

In 2017, the government paused election plans after clashes resulted in fatalities and arson, including the torching of the Kohima Municipal Council office.

Despite a call for abstention from the Eastern Nagaland Peoples' Organization (ENPO), a number of candidates from the ruling NDPP and BJP defied the directive and submitted nominations. The ENPO, representing seven Naga tribes from six districts, has long advocated for a 'Frontier Nagaland Territory' due to perceived neglect.

The votes for the ULB elections are set to be counted on June 29.

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