Security Heightens as Aizawl Municipal Corporation Elections Begin
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Key Takeaways
Aizawl, April 21 (NationPress) The voting process for the 19-member Aizawl Municipal Corporation (AMC) kicked off early Tuesday morning, with strict security measures in place, as confirmed by election officials.
A significant turnout was observed, with individuals, including many women, forming lines at the 275 polling stations in urban areas of the civic body.
Polling began promptly at 7 A.M. and will run continuously until 5 P.M. Approximately 239,000 voters, comprising 126,000 women, are eligible to vote, determining the electoral fate of 68 candidates, of which 28 are women, competing in these municipal elections.
To ensure a free, fair, and transparent polling process, the election authorities, in collaboration with state police, have implemented comprehensive security measures.
The Mizoram government has declared a public holiday in the AMC regions on Tuesday, allowing voters to participate in the election.
“All eligible voters are encouraged to make their voices heard. On polling day, all government offices, educational institutions, and public sector establishments within the AMC jurisdiction will be closed,” stated an official notice.
Officials from the Mizoram State Election Commission (SEC) reported that nearly 94% of the 2,768 senior citizens, Persons with Disabilities (PwD), and individuals with chronic illnesses have already utilized the home voting facility.
The candidates include 40 men and 28 women representing four major political parties, all vying for positions in the civic body.
The ruling Zoram People’s Movement, the principal opposition Mizo National Front (MNF), and the Congress have each nominated 19 candidates, while the BJP has put forth 11 candidates.
In the previous AMC elections held in February 2021, the MNF achieved a majority by winning 11 seats. The Zoram People’s Movement captured 6 seats, and the Congress secured 2 seats.
Although the municipality's term concluded on March 1, the State Election Commission postponed the election process due to administrative factors, including the state Assembly's budget session that finished on March 16 and ongoing state Board examinations.
The State Election Commission has also enforced the Model Code of Conduct for political parties and candidates. Votes will be counted on April 27.