The stage is set for a high-stakes battle as Mizoram gears up for Assembly elections on November 7. The Election Commission last week announced that all 40 seats in the northeastern state will go to polls in a single phase, with the counting of votes scheduled for December 3, alongside Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Telangana.

In an expected three-way contest, the Congress party is pinning its hopes on its new state president. However, it faces tough competition from the incumbent Mizo National Front (MNF) and the rising influence of the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) in state politics.

Let’s take a look at key issues which could be decisive in the upcoming Assembly polls.

Mizoram Assembly Elections 2023: Key Issues

1) Despite legal victories, corruption allegations against former Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla and current Chief Minister Zoramthanga have left the public sceptical, providing a possible opportunity for the ZPM to make its mark.

2) According to a report by The Economic Times, analysts point out that the MNF might have an advantage due to effective management of critical issues, including the distribution of financial aid under the Socio-Economic Development Policy (SEDP), handling of refugees and addressing the growing sentiment of Zo sub-nationalism.

3) Ongoing boundary disputes with Assam and the increasing influx of drugs remain pressing concerns. Previous clashes at the Assam-Mizoram border continue to cast a shadow over the region.

4) The ethnic conflict in Manipur has led to a significant refugee crisis in Mizoram, with around 72,000 refugees seeking shelter in the state, according to reports. Handling this crisis has become a major election issue, with the opposition criticising the state government’s response.

5) According to a report by The Wire, Mizoram’s Deputy Chief Minister Tawnluia addressed the issue of Zo unification, aiming to bring together the Mizo-Zo community across northeastern states. This historic issue, dormant since the 1986 peace accord, has resurfaced amid the ongoing crisis in Manipur, allowing the MNF to highlight its stance once again.

6) The MNF government’s recent decision to defy the Centre’s directive on collecting biometric data of Myanmarese refugees has raised eyebrows, indicating the party’s strategic moves in the run-up to the elections. Anti-incumbency sentiments are in the air, and the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) led by Lalduhawma appears to have gained traction, especially in urban areas.

The state’s political landscape has been marked by concerns over development, alleged corruption and identity politics. Mizoram Liquor (Prohibition) Act, 2019, supported by the Church, has been a pivotal issue. Additionally, intra-ethnic tensions, particularly concerning the inclusion of Brus settled in Tripura in the electoral rolls, have further fuelled the political debate.