Chhattisgarh and Mizoram have begun their month-long election expedition. In Chhattisgarh, the primary contest unfolds between the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Congress. Mizoram stands out as the only state where these two parties aren’t the sole major contenders, with the Mizo National Front (MNF) and Zoram Peoples’ Movement (ZPM) playing a significant role in the state’s politics.
#WATCH | Chhattisgarh Elections | Sukma: Voting being held in naxal-affected Karigundam area after 23 years. The polling process is being held under the security cover by CRPF 150 Battalion and District Force.
— ANI (@ANI) November 7, 2023
(Video Source: CRPF 150 Battalion) pic.twitter.com/pk2tfpUs86
Mizoram’s election features 174 candidates, while Chhattisgarh’s first phase sees 223 candidates competing for seats in the 90-member assembly. The ruling Congress, led by Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, aims to retain power in Chhattisgarh. Security is tight after an IED blast injured polling agents and a BSF jawan in Kanker. Notable candidates include Deepak Baij, Kawasi Lakhma, Mohan Markam, Mohammad Akbar, and Chhavindra Karma, with the BJP’s Raman Singh contesting against Girish Dewangan.
VIDEO | Mizoram Assembly Election 2023: 94-year-old Doriami reaches a polling booth to cast her vote in Aizawl.#MizoramElections2023 #AssemblyElectionsWithPTI pic.twitter.com/h4xkY8MOJc
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) November 7, 2023
In Mizoram, the MNF hopes to continue its rule, emphasizing Mizo nationalism. The election journey has commenced as voting takes place in 20 seats of Chhattisgarh, including Naxal-affected areas, and across Mizoram’s 40-member assembly. Security remains a priority.
The second phase of polling in Chhattisgarh and single-phase polling in Madhya Pradesh will take place on November 17. Rajasthan will have a one-day voting process on November 25, while Telangana’s single-phase voting is scheduled for November 30. Vote counting across these states is scheduled for December 3.
