Aizawl, April 21: Voting for the 19-member Aizawl Municipal Corporation (AMC) commenced this morning under strict security measures in Mizoram.
A significant turnout was observed at the 275 polling stations located in urban areas of the municipality, with long queues forming as many people, including women, came out to cast their votes.
Voting started at 7 AM and will continue until 5 PM. A total of 68 candidates, including 28 women, are contesting in this municipal election, with the fate of approximately 239,000 voters, including 126,000 women, hanging in the balance.
Election officials, in collaboration with state police, have implemented extensive measures to ensure that the voting process remains free, fair, and transparent.
To facilitate voter participation, the Mizoram government declared a public holiday in areas under the AMC jurisdiction on Tuesday. An official notification urged all eligible voters to exercise their right to vote. On polling day, all government offices, educational institutions, and public sector establishments within the AMC’s jurisdiction will remain closed.
According to officials from the Mizoram State Election Commission (SEC), nearly 94 percent of the 2,768 senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWD), and individuals suffering from serious illnesses have utilized the home voting facility to cast their votes.
An SEC official noted that the candidates include 40 men and 28 women from four major political parties, all vying for seats in the municipal body.
The ruling Zoram People’s Movement, the main opposition Mizo National Front (MNF), and the Congress party have each fielded 19 candidates, while the BJP has nominated 11 candidates.
The last AMC elections were held in February 2021, where the MNF secured a majority by winning 11 seats. The Zoram People’s Movement won six seats, while the Congress managed to secure two.
Although the term of the corporation ended on March 1, the state election commission postponed the election process due to administrative reasons, including the state assembly’s budget session that concluded on March 16, along with ongoing state board examinations. The state election commission has also enforced a model code of conduct for political parties and candidates. The counting of votes is scheduled for April 27.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
Leave a Comment