Mizoram: Rahul Gandhi's Mizoram Visit Sparks Political Buzz Ahead of State Assembly Elections

KOHIMA: In a noteworthy political development, Rahul Gandhi, a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress, embarked on a two-day visit to Mizoram on Monday. His visit commenced with a Padyatra, a foot march, which started from Chanmari in Aizawl and culminated at Raj Bhawan, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of supporters.

Congress spokesperson Mathew Antony highlighted the significance of Rahul Gandhi's visit, emphasizing that it was a long-anticipated event, reminiscent of his father, Rajiv Gandhi's visit to Mizoram in 1986. The visit garnered widespread excitement among the people of Mizoram. Notably, Rahul Gandhi's Padyatra is part of a Bharat Jodo Yatra, aimed at uniting the nation during a time when polarization and ethnic divisions have become increasingly prominent.

As preparations for the upcoming Assembly elections in Mizoram gain momentum, there is hope within the Congress party for the formation of a government. Rahul Gandhi is scheduled to meet with party leaders and address a public gathering. The announcement of party candidates is also expected shortly.

However, in response to Rahul Gandhi's visit, Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga expressed reservations about its impact on the overall population of Mizoram. He suggested that while the visit might benefit Congress party members, its broader significance for the state's residents could be limited.

In the last Mizoram assembly elections held in 2018, the Mizo National Front (MNF) secured a majority by winning 26 out of 40 seats, with a 37.8% vote share. The Congress managed to secure only five seats, and the BJP won one.

The upcoming elections in Mizoram are scheduled for November 7, coinciding with assembly elections in Chhattisgarh, which will be conducted in two phases on November 7 and November 17, as well as in Madhya Pradesh on November 17, Rajasthan on November 23, and Telangana on November 30. The vote count for all these states is set for December 3. These elections hold great importance due to their timing relative to the forthcoming national Lok Sabha elections scheduled for April-May next year.

With the announcement of the election dates, the Model Code of Conduct has been enforced, marking the formal commencement of election-related regulations and restrictions. The close proximity of these state elections to the national elections adds to their significance and paves the way for intensified political activity and campaigns in the region.

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