Tension erupts in Karbi Anglong's Rongkhang over alleged post-deadline nomination acceptance

Tension gripped the nomination filing centre in 111 Rongkhang Legislative Assembly Constituency in West Karbi Anglong on March 23 after officials allegedly accepted the nomination papers of an independent candidate even after the official deadline had passed.

According to reports, the last time for filing nominations was 3:00 PM. Independent candidate Dhaneshwar Rongphar reportedly arrived after the deadline but his nomination was still accepted by returning officers, allegedly following a phone call from an unidentified individual.

The move triggered immediate outrage among rival candidates, party workers, and observers present at the venue, who accused officials of violating established procedures. The situation quickly turned tense, with protests breaking out over what was described as preferential treatment.

The incident has raised serious concerns regarding transparency and adherence to election norms in the constituency. Authorities are yet to issue an official clarification on the matter.

The 111 Rongkhang seat, a newly delimited constituency, is witnessing a closely watched contest, with the Bharatiya Janata Party fielding senior leader Tuliram Ronghang among the top contenders.