Chumoukedima, Nagaland, April 20 (HBTV): The indefinite total shutdown that was imposed in the eastern areas of Nagaland ahead of the Lok Sabha election has been lifted today i.e., April 20.  

The so-named ‘eastern Nagaland public emergency control room’ on Saturday at 8:30 am announced the lifting of the shutdown 'with immediate effect.'        

The shutdown was imposed in connection with issues related to the demand of the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organization for an autonomous administration.    

As part of its push to have its demands fulfilled, the ENPO decided to abstain from voting in the eastern areas. On polling day, Friday, the six districts in the eastern Nagaland areas saw no ‘zero’ voter turn-out.  

Interestingly, on April 19, the ENPO responded to a show-cause notice issued by the election authorities for abstaining from the Lok Sabha elections. The ENPO claimed in its reply that its intention was aimed at “maintaining the law and order situation in eastern Nagaland regions, ensuring the safety and well being of its residents.”