Mizoram’s Aizawl woke up to the sound of democracy Tuesday as polls for the 19-member Aizawl Municipal Corporation (AMC) got underway amid beefed-up security protocols.
Urban polling booths, numbering 275, witnessed a surge of voters right from the opening hour. Women formed a substantial part of the enthusiastic crowds forming serpentine queues, reflecting deep community engagement.
The voting window spans from 7 AM to 5 PM sharp. Sixty-eight aspirants, including 28 female candidates, are in the fray, facing scrutiny from 2.39 lakh voters – 1.26 lakh of whom are women – in a battle that promises fierce competition.
Authorities have orchestrated meticulous arrangements with police backing to uphold the sanctity of the electoral exercise. Transparency and impartiality are the watchwords guiding operations at every station.
A public holiday across AMC limits has cleared the decks for voters. Government establishments, educational institutions, and public enterprises are shuttered, per an official directive appealing to all to vote.
Home voting has been a resounding success, with about 94% of targeted vulnerable groups – 2,768 senior citizens, PwD, and medically compromised individuals – casting ballots comfortably at home.
Political heavyweights dominate: ZPM, MNF, and Congress each launched 19 candidates (40 men, 28 women total across parties), BJP fielded 11. This follows the 2021 results where MNF won 11, ZPM 6, Congress 2.
Elections were postponed post-term end on March 1 owing to legislative sessions and exams. The State Election Commission enforces the code of conduct rigorously. Votes will be tallied on April 27, potentially redrawing local power dynamics.
