Despite threats 156 candidates in fray in ULB polls

Despite threats of ex-communication and calls for boycott by major tribal organisations, altogether 156 candidates mostly from the ruling Naga People's Front (NPF) and Independent candidates have filed their nominations for election to the urban local bodies (ULBs) in different parts of Nagaland.
Till the third day of filing nominations, which will end on January 7, out of the 156 candidates 121 are from NPF, 13 BJP and 22 are Independent nominees.
Sources in State Election Commission revealed that besides the 13 filed nominations on first day on January 3, 58 yesterday and 85 today.
There are 3 Municipal Councils and 29 Town Councils with 353 wards, which are scheduled to go to polls on February 1.

However, even as nominations are in progress, the apex tribal bodies in the state including Angami Public Organisation (APO), Ao Senden, Sumi Hoho, Lotha Hoho, Chakhesang Public Organisation, Meluri Area Public Organisation have called for a boycott also cautioning that those having disobeyed would be ex-communicated.
They have expressed that conduct of elections to ULBs will infringe the special rights of the Naga people guaranteed under Article 371(A) of the Constitution.