Mizoram: Polling agents trek to remote villages as election preparations intensify

As Mizoram gears up for Friday's polling for the lone Lok Sabha seat, preparations are in full swing, with polling agents embarking on journeys to far-flung villages in the state. Amidst the backdrop of heightened security measures and sealed international and inter-state borders,

Senior election official H Lianzela confirmed that all arrangements have been made for the voting, with over 6.56 lakh eligible electorates, including a significant 4.4 lakh female voters, primed to exercise their democratic right. Voting will commence at 7 am in all 1,276 polling stations and conclude at 5 pm.

A significant aspect of the electoral process is the deployment of over 6,500 polling personnel, including those designated for remote polling stations in south Mizoram's Lunglei and Lawngtlai districts and Mamit district in the western part of the state. These polling parties set out for their respective stations on Wednesday, with the remaining personnel following suit on Thursday.

Security measures have been intensified across the state, with more than 3,500 policemen and 12 companies of the Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) ensuring the maintenance of peace and order during the electoral process.

In the political arena, six candidates are in contention for the coveted Lok Sabha seat. The ruling Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) has put forth debutant Richard Vanlalhmangaiha, while the main opposition Mizo National Front (MNF) has fielded sitting lone Rajya Sabha member, K Vanlalvena. The Congress nominee is former state Home secretary Lalbiakzama, whereas the BJP has nominated its state president Vanlalhmuaka. Additionally, the People's Conference (PC) party has introduced a woman candidate, Rita Malsawmi, and Lalhriatrenga Chhangte is contesting as an independent candidate.