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Journalism of Courage
The influential Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) has come out with its own version of code of conduct for political parties, candidates, as well as the common voters to ensure free and fair elections in the state. Nagaland is one of the three Northeastern states that are heading for Assembly elections. While polling will be held in the state on March 5, the Election Commission has fixed February 16 as the last date for filing nominations, followed by withdrawal by February 20.
The church, which has an overwhelming influence over the Naga people, has not only asked parties and candidates to refrain from booth-capturing but also warned against corrupting the young people in the name of electioneering. The church comes out with similar guidelines during elections in Mizoram too.
“Booth capturing is obnoxious. Any design to capture election booths is unconstitutional and against the will of God. It will not only curtail free expression of one’s opinion in the form of vote, but also demean the identity of the individuals,” the NBCC said. It decried proxy voting as a sinful act and urged the people to remain vigilant against such acts.
“Righteousness and justice are the essence of the Kingdom of God. The church will preach about just rule and the responsibility of one’s voting rights as a divine birthright, which further entails that proxy voting is a sin against God and his fellowmen,” the guidelines issued by the NBCC said.
The church asked parties and candidates not to enter into secret deals or agreements with selective individuals, clansmen or others. “All discussions and manifestations should be issue based and should be in public domain since the election experience is ultimately for all the people and by all the people,” it said.
The NBCC also issued specific guidelines against use of alcohol and establishment of camps for youth during elections and said such acts not only disturb the already fragile social climates of the towns and villages but also endanger the future of the youth.
