Aizawl: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has reprimanded Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma for violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) while campaigning for his party, the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM), in the Dampa Assembly by-election, an official said on Monday.
The poll panel, after reviewing a report from the state Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) and an explanation submitted by ZPM president Lalliansawta, found the response “unacceptable.”
In a letter to the Mizoram CEO on Saturday, the ECI stated, “The impugned statement made by Lalduhoma is condemned.” It further directed the ZPM president to sensitise all star campaigners to strictly follow the MCC during electioneering.
The Commission also warned that party campaigners must refrain from making statements that could disturb the level playing field, raise doubts about the integrity of the electoral process, or create communal tension.
“Star campaigners should exercise caution in future while making public utterances, as the spirit of the MCC requires all public servants, including ministers, to uphold the sanctity of the electoral process,” the ECI said.
The reprimand followed multiple complaints filed by the opposition Mizo National Front (MNF). The MNF had alleged that during a campaign event at West Phaileng on October 21, Lalduhoma announced a new Rs 770-crore water supply project for Reiek and nearby villages—an act considered a violation of the MCC.
The party also accused the Chief Minister’s adviser and MLA Dr. Lorrain Lalpekliana Chinzah of conducting free health clinics and distributing medicines in two villages on October 17.
In another complaint filed last week, the MNF alleged that Lalduhoma made provocative remarks that could incite communal tension and misused his official position to influence voters.
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Mizoram CEO Lalrozama said the election department has sought an explanation from the ZPM over the latest complaint. “The matter will be referred to the Election Commission along with the CEO’s analysis and the party’s response,” he said.
Polling for the Dampa Assembly bypoll is scheduled for November 11.
