Arunachal: Neck to neck battle in Tezu-Sunpura constituency

The Tezu-Sunpura assembly constituency in Lohit district of Eastern Arunachal Pradesh has become the focal point of a tightly contested electoral battle, with candidates from the BJP, NPP, INC, and an independent party locking horns in a quadrilateral fight. This constituency, known for its diverse demographics and key social issues, is witnessing a heated campaign ahead of the upcoming elections.

The main contenders in this electoral showdown are former Minister Mahesh Chai, who was elected in 2014 on a BJP ticket and served as Minister for Agriculture, Horticulture, and Fisheries for 8 months in the Pema Khandu government. He faces tough competition from NPP candidate Karikho Kri, popularly known as Bhaiya for his extensive social work among the 67% non-Arunachalee voters residing in Tezu-Sunpura. Adding to the mix is INC MLA candidate Jeremai Krong and independent candidate Badang Tayang.

Karikho Kri, addressing the pressing issue of land encroachment, stated, "70% of land is unofficially encroached by the locals of Arunachal people. If the government takes any action against it, then the locals will have to face trouble. An amicable solution has to be given by the government." He further pledged, "If elected for the fourth time as NLA, I will regularize the unauthorized land and request the government to settle one-time revenue for those affected."

However, Mahesh Chai countered these claims, accusing Karikho of spreading falsehoods. Chai stated, "People are willing to vote for the BJP, people are willing to vote for development." He criticized Karikho for allegedly misleading voters by suggesting that NPP and BJP are similar and spreading rumors about electric shocks linked to voting for the Lotus symbol.

As the election date draws near, the campaign fervor is expected to intensify, with each candidate vying to secure the support of voters and emerge victorious in this closely contested constituency.