Will Mizoram Witness a Multi-Corner Contest in the Dampa Bypoll?
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Synopsis
Aizawl gears up for a fiercely contested by-election in the Dampa Assembly constituency on November 11, with four prominent candidates vying for victory. This election is crucial for both the ruling Zoram People's Movement and the opposition Mizo National Front, as they each seek to strengthen their political foothold in Mizoram.
Key Takeaways
- Four candidates are contesting the Dampa Assembly by-election.
- The election will take place on November 11.
- Voting eligibility includes 20,790 voters.
- The outcome could reshape the political landscape ahead of the 2028 elections.
- Significant security measures are in place.
Aizawl, Oct 20 (NationPress) A multi-faceted competition is anticipated in the by-election for the Dampa Assembly constituency in Mizoram, set for November 11.
According to election officials, four candidates from both the ruling and opposition factions have submitted their nominations for the by-election. The candidates include Vanlalsailova from the ruling Zoram People's Movement (ZPM), R Lalthangliana of the opposition Mizo National Front (MNF), Lalhmangaiha from the BJP, and John Rotluangliana representing the Congress.
Vanlalsailova is a well-known Mizo singer and preacher, while Lalthangliana serves as the MNF's Vice-President and has previously held the position of State Health Minister.
Rotluangliana is the Vice-President of the Congress in the state and a former Minister, and Lalhmingthanga from BJP recently transitioned from the Congress party.
The deadline for submitting nominations is October 21, with scrutiny scheduled for the following day (Wednesday). Candidates have until October 24 to withdraw their nominations. Voting for the Dampa Assembly seat is set for November 11.
Vote counting will occur on November 14. The Dampa Assembly seat became vacant following the demise of MNF legislator Lalrintluanga Sailo on July 21.
The Election Commission has appointed three central observers – a General Observer, a Police Observer, and an Expenditure Observer – to monitor the election process.
Comprehensive security measures are being implemented for the by-elections under the guidance of the state police nodal officer H. Ramthlengliana, Inspector General of Police (Headquarters and Law and Order).
With four formidable contenders in the contest, the upcoming by-election is poised to be one of the most closely watched political showdowns in Mizoram.
Even before the Election Commission announced the poll schedule on October 6, both ruling and opposition parties began campaigning vigorously for this critically important Assembly seat.
The Dampa Assembly seat, which borders Bangladesh, has a significant minority population, including Chakmas and Reang tribals. According to the final electoral rolls released on September 30, there are 20,790 eligible voters, comprising 10,185 women.
Historically, this Assembly seat has been a Congress stronghold since Mizoram became a full state in 1987. However, it has been under MNF control since 2018, diminishing the Congress's influence in the area. The Dampa by-election is crucial for both the ruling ZPM and the opposition MNF.
For the ZPM, led by Chief Minister Lalduhoma, a defeat could indicate a decline in its support ahead of the 2028 State Assembly elections. The ZPM gained power in the predominantly Christian state for the first time in 2023, defeating the MNF.
Conversely, for the MNF, a win will not only restore its momentum before the 2028 elections but could also be critical for retaining its claim to the Leader of Opposition (LoP) position. The MNF, which has governed the border state for several years, must secure at least 10 seats in the 40-member state Assembly to maintain the LoP position.
Point of View
The Dampa by-election showcases the dynamic political landscape in Mizoram, illustrating how regional parties maneuver for power. The outcome will likely influence the strategies of both the Zoram People’s Movement and the Mizo National Front as they prepare for the 2028 State Assembly elections. This election serves as a litmus test for their respective support and adaptability in a changing political environment.
NationPress
20/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Dampa by-election scheduled?
The Dampa by-election is scheduled for November 11.
Who are the candidates contesting in the Dampa by-election?
The candidates include Vanlalsailova from ZPM, R Lalthangliana from MNF, Lalhmangaiha from BJP, and John Rotluangliana from Congress.
What is the significance of this by-election?
The by-election is significant as it affects the political landscape of Mizoram and could influence party standings ahead of the 2028 State Assembly elections.
What is the voter turnout expected for this by-election?
A total of 20,790 voters, including 10,185 women, are eligible to participate in the election.
What security measures are being implemented for the by-election?
Adequate security measures are being taken under the supervision of the state police, including the appointment of central observers.
