Aizawl Municipal Elections Face Delay, Likely in April-May
Mizoram's State Election Commissioner H Lalthlangliana made a clear announcement on Friday. He stated that elections for the Aizawl Municipal Corporation cannot proceed before the current term ends. Several practical obstacles are forcing this delay. The polls will most probably happen in April or May this year.
Logistical Hurdles and Financial Year End Cited
Lalthlangliana spoke directly to reporters in Aizawl. He explained the situation in simple terms. The current term of the AMC officially concludes on March 1st. However, holding elections right at that time is not practical. The commissioner pointed out a major issue. The end of the financial year keeps most government employees extremely busy with annual closing duties. Their availability for election work would be very limited.
He added another significant challenge. The state legislative assembly is scheduled to hold its budget session in February. This event creates its own set of logistical problems. Organizing the municipal elections simultaneously would stretch resources too thin.
EVM Availability Adds to the Timeline
The commissioner provided further technical reasons for the postponement. Electronic Voting Machines pose a specific problem. The EVMs used in the recent Lai Autonomous District Council elections on December 3rd are currently unavailable. These machines remain securely sealed inside strong rooms as per protocol.
"It requires at least 60 days for releasing the EVMs for use in other elections," Lalthlangliana emphasized. He clarified the rule. A mandatory waiting period exists after any election. This time allows for the receipt and processing of any potential complaints to the election commission. Only after this period can the machines be cleared for reuse.
Precedent Exists for Term Extension
Lalthlangliana reminded everyone that this is not the first time the AMC's tenure has been extended. Back in 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic forced a similar delay. He stressed this point to show that such extensions, while not ideal, have happened before under extraordinary circumstances.
Political Parties Begin Their Preparations
Despite the official delay, political activity is already picking up momentum in Aizawl. The ruling Zoram People's Movement has not waited. They have started announcing some of their candidates for the upcoming municipal polls. On the other side, the Mizo National Front currently holds power in the AMC. They are now actively preparing their strategy to defend their position whenever the elections are finally held.
The atmosphere in the city is one of anticipation mixed with understanding. While voters await their chance to cast ballots, the practical realities of governance and election management are dictating the calendar.
