Mizoram is gearing up for its upcoming Assembly elections scheduled for November 7, and political enthusiasts are keeping a close eye on four key constituencies that promise to be hotly contested. With a total of 40 constituencies in the state, these four are expected to be pivotal in determining the political landscape in Mizoram.

Here’s a detailed look at the four constituencies.

1. Aizawl East-I: One of the most closely watched seats is Aizawl East-I, where incumbent Chief Minister Zoramthanga is seeking re-election. Zoramthanga secured this seat in the 2018 Assembly elections and now faces a challenge from Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) Vice-President Lalthansanga. While Aizawl East-I was traditionally a Congress stronghold, this election is shaping up as a direct contest between the ruling Mizo National Front (MNF) and the Congress. The last few elections have seen the seat change hands between different parties, adding to the intrigue.

2. Serchhip: Serchhip constituency is generating significant buzz as it features ZPM leader and chief ministerial candidate Lalduhoma, who currently holds the seat. He is up against MNF newcomer J. Malsawmzual Vanchhawng and Congress candidate R. Vanlaltluanga. Lalduhoma previously ousted five-time chief minister Lal Thanhawla from this seat in 2018, making it a historically significant contest. Malsawmzual Vanchhawng, a former journalist, is expected to provide a formidable challenge despite being a first-time candidate.

3. Hachhek: Hachhek, located in Mizoram's Mamit district near the Tripura border, is set for an intense battle between incumbent Congress legislator Lalrindika Ralte and current state Sports Minister Robert Romawia Royte. The MNF leadership has strategically asked Royte to change his constituency to Hachhek in an attempt to unseat Ralte, who has a strong presence in the area. The constituency has traditionally been a Congress stronghold, but Royte is considered a strong contender. Main Opposition ZPM has also fielded K.J. Lalbiakngheta, making this race even more interesting.

4. Aizawl West-III: Aizawl West-III is expected to witness a three-way tussle among MNF, ZPM, and the Congress. Incumbent ZPM legislator V.L. Zaithanzama will face off against former finance minister and current Congress President Lalsawta and MNF nominee K. Sawmvela. This constituency is unique as no party has won it consecutively since its creation in 2008. The race is particularly significant as all three contenders hail from the same constituency and are likely to garner strong local support. Sawmvela's reputation as a former top state official adds an interesting dynamic to the race.

Beyond these key seats, several pressing issues are shaping the electoral landscape in Mizoram.

Ethnic conflict in Manipur casts a shadow

The five-month-long ethnic conflict in neighbouring Manipur is having a significant impact on the elections in Mizoram. The state is currently hosting around 72,000 refugees, including Kukis from Manipur, and those who fled Myanmar after a military coup in February, 2021. Handling the refugee crisis has become a major election issue, with the Opposition accusing the state government of ineptness and the ruling party seeking central assistance.

Boundary disputes and drug influx

Other prominent issues include the ongoing boundary dispute between Assam and Mizoram and the increasing influx of drugs into the state. Violent clashes at the Assam-Mizoram border in 2021 resulted in casualties, and negotiations have yet to yield a resolution.

These issues are top concerns for voters as they head to the polls.

(Edited by : Shoma Bhattacharjee)