Counting of votes for the Lai Autonomous District Council (LADC) elections in Mizoram continued through Monday morning, showing a close contest in several constituencies. However, based on the counting trends till late morning, the Mizo National Front (MNF) appeared to be ahead in a number of seats, while Congress and BJP also showed early gains. Officials said the final picture would be clear only after all rounds of counting are completed.
So far, MNF has taken leads in four constituencies. Congress is ahead in two seats and the BJP has secured one win. The Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM), which fought a visible campaign, is yet to open its account. Counting officials said that the trend could still change in some places as a few rounds remain.
In Bazar Bial, MNF candidate Glory Lalropuia Chinzah secured 633 votes, finishing ahead of Congress candidate J. Rohlupuia who received 568 votes. The ZPM candidate Rev Vanlalzauva secured 190 votes. In Diltiang South Bial, MNF’s H.C. Lalthawmliana polled 821 votes, while ZPM’s F. Lallungrual was close behind with 752. Congress candidate Vanlalnghaka got 522 votes. 
In Sangau East, the BJP managed a win, with its candidate BN Thangpuia receiving 823 votes. ZPM candidate Lianhrangvela got 609 votes. Meanwhile, Lawngtlai Vengpui showed an early advantage for the Congress, as C. Ngunlianchunga secured 1,022 votes. MNF’s V.L. Hmuaka got 584, and ZPM’s Lallawmsanga received 211 votes in this constituency.
In Chawngte P, Congress candidate H. Lalengkima secured 754 votes, followed by MNF’s Andrew Laltlanzara who received 504. ZPM’s S. Lalnunsanga got 235, and BJP candidate Vanlalhruaii Vandir secured 67 votes. In Chanmari Bial, MNF candidate C. Lalsawmzuala crossed 953 votes, while independent candidate Hrilisangzuala received 823 votes and ZPM’s F. Lalluia got 356 votes.
Another MNF lead was visible in Sangau South where J.B. Vanhawi secured 779 votes. ZPM’s K. Pathiaua received 664 votes. Counting officials stated that several rounds were still left in some counting centres and therefore final results would take more time.
Election observers in Mizoram said the results indicate a mixed response from voters, with different political parties showing strength in different areas. They also said that the picture was not the same across all bials and that the results would likely vary till the last round is completed.
