What’s Happening in the Mizoram Assembly Bypoll Campaign in Dampa?
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Synopsis
As Mizoram prepares for a crucial bypoll in the Dampa Assembly constituency, political parties are ramping up their campaigns amidst heightened competition. With candidates from the ZPM, MNF, Congress, and BJP already announced, this election could redefine political dynamics in the state.
Key Takeaways
- The Dampa bypoll is a significant political event in Mizoram.
- Multiple parties are contesting, including ZPM, MNF, Congress, and BJP.
- The constituency has shifted from Congress control to MNF.
- Voter demographics include a substantial minority population.
- The results may influence the political landscape ahead of the 2028 elections.
Aizawl, Oct 3 (NationPress) While the Election Commission of India (ECI) has not yet released the timetable for the bypoll in the Dampa Assembly constituency in Mizoram, various political factions have already kicked off their campaigns for this crucial electoral seat.
The ruling Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) and opposition groups such as the Mizo National Front (MNF), Congress, and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have unveiled their candidates, setting the stage for a multi-faceted electoral battle.
The Dampa Assembly seat, located in the Mamit district of western Mizoram, became vacant following the passing of MNF legislator Lalrintluanga Sailo on July 21. The ruling ZPM has put forth Mizo singer and preacher Vanlalsailova, whereas the primary opposition, MNF, has nominated its senior Vice-President and former state Health Minister Dr. R. Lalthangliana. The Congress has chosen its state unit Vice President and former Minister John Rotluangaliana, while the BJP has selected former Congress leader Lalhmingthanga, who recently transitioned to the BJP.
With four prominent candidates in the mix, this forthcoming by-election is anticipated to become one of the most closely monitored political showdowns in Mizoram.
Lal Thanzara, the state Congress President, has expressed optimism regarding the party's chances in this constituency, asserting that the residents of Dampa maintain a strong belief in the Congress, which has been at the helm of Mizoram’s governance for numerous years.
Lal Thanzara is the younger sibling of former Chief Minister and long-standing state party chief Lal Thanhawla, a recognized figure within the Congress in Mizoram.
This constituency has traditionally been a Congress bastion since Mizoram attained full statehood in 1987. However, the MNF has controlled the seat since 2018, diminishing the Congress’s stronghold in the area.
The Dampa bye-election carries substantial implications for both the ruling ZPM and the opposition MNF. For the ZPM, led by Chief Minister Lalduhoma, a defeat could indicate a decrease in its popularity ahead of the 2028 state Assembly elections. The ZPM initially came into power in this predominantly Christian state in 2023 after unseating the MNF.
Conversely, a win for the MNF would not only reinvigorate the party in anticipation of the 2028 elections, but it would also be crucial for sustaining its claim to the position of Leader of Opposition (LoP).
The MNF, which has dominated the border state for numerous years, must secure at least 10 seats in the 40-member State Assembly to retain the LoP title.
The Dampa constituency, which shares a border with Bangladesh, is home to a significant minority populace, including Chakmas and Reang tribals. According to the final electoral rolls released on September 30, a total of 20,790 voters, comprising 10,185 women, are eligible to participate in the voting process.
Point of View
The upcoming bypoll in Dampa is not merely a local affair but a litmus test for the ruling ZPM and the opposition MNF. Given the historical significance of the constituency, the election results may have broader implications for regional governance and party dynamics as we approach the 2028 Assembly elections.
NationPress
03/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the Dampa Assembly bypoll?
The bypoll was necessitated by the passing of MNF legislator Lalrintluanga Sailo on July 21.
Which parties are contesting in the Dampa bypoll?
The ruling ZPM, opposition MNF, Congress, and BJP are the main parties contesting in the Dampa bypoll.
What is the significance of the Dampa constituency?
Dampa has historically been a Congress stronghold, making the upcoming bypoll crucial for both the ruling and opposition parties.
How many voters are eligible to vote in Dampa?
According to the final electoral rolls, 20,790 voters, including 10,185 women, are eligible to cast their votes in Dampa.
What are the stakes for the ruling ZPM and MNF?
For the ZPM, a loss could indicate declining popularity, while a win for the MNF could help maintain its claim to the Leader of Opposition post.
