The elections for the 25-member Lai Autonomous District Council (LADC) wrapped up peacefully on Wednesday, marked by a robust and enthusiastic voter participation. Election officials reported a provisional turnout exceeding 80% as of 4 pm, with the final figure expected to rise as votes from those still inside polling stations after the deadline are fully accounted for.
Peaceful Polling and Voter Demographics
No untoward incidents were reported across the entire council area, ensuring a smooth and secure electoral process. A total of 56,873 registered voters were eligible to cast their ballots in this crucial local body election. The electoral roll comprised 27,854 male voters and 29,019 female voters, indicating a higher number of enrolled women. The constituency of Sakeilui recorded the highest number of electors at 3,993, while Cheural, with 1,381 voters, had the lowest.
A Multi-Cornered Contest with Key Players
The electoral fray saw 80 candidates vying for the 25 council seats. The political landscape was dominated by regional and national parties. The Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) contested all 25 seats, demonstrating a comprehensive push for dominance. The Mizo National Front (MNF) fielded candidates in 20 constituencies. The Indian National Congress (INC) put up 14 candidates, and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) contested 10 seats. Additionally, 11 independent candidates are in the race, including a prominent figure, former three-time chief executive member V Zirsanga.
A notable aspect of this election was the gender representation among candidates. Lalhruaitluangi Vandir, the president of the BJP’s Lai district unit, stood as the sole woman candidate, contesting from the Chawngte ‘P’ constituency.
Constituency-Wise Battle Formations
The elections presented a mix of direct and multi-cornered contests across different constituencies. Straight, one-on-one fights are occurring in six constituencies. Specifically, the ZPM and BJP are locked in direct contests in Sangau East and Sangau West. Meanwhile, the ZPM and MNF are facing off against each other in four seats: Sangau South, Lungtian, Bualpui West, and Lawngtlai-III.
The electoral dynamics become more complex in other areas. Triangular battles, involving three main contenders, are set in 11 constituencies. One constituency is poised for a quadrangular contest with four significant candidates. Furthermore, three constituencies have the most crowded fields, with five candidates each in the running, making the outcomes particularly unpredictable.
All eyes are now on the counting process to see which parties and candidates will secure the mandate of the people in the Lai Autonomous District Council.
