GUWAHATI: At a time when Mizoram political musical-chair is at its peak with leaders shifting loyalty to secure their fate in the upcoming Assembly polls, the Congress has harked back to its trusted “Bharat Jodo Yatra” to solidify its hold over the state.
As a part of the yatra, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will be on a three-day visit to the state beginning October 16 and bolster the party’s poll campaign.
Lalmalsawma Nghaka, the treasurer of Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC), informed that during his stay, Gandhi is expected to take part in a march through Aizawl – from Chanmari to Treasury Square. This 2 km march is being held as part of the yatra. During Gandhi’s stay the party is also expected to unveil its list of candidates for 40-member assembly polls.
“Gandhi will interact with important persons and address a press conference before his departure on October 18,” he said, he told the press.
In the last eight days, seven legislators have submitted their resignations, marking a notable trend in the state’s political landscape. Among them, there is Congress MLA K T Rokhaw.
On October 3, Rokhaw had joined the Mizoram National Front (MNF) and is set to contest from Palak, the constituency from where he had won in 2018. Rokhaw admitted to have made the decision to join the ruling party after receiving an invitation from the MNF. He also consulted with members of his constituency, who advised him to align himself with the MNF.
Like Congress, the MNF too has borne the brunt of this trend. In a surprise move on October 11, Mizoram Assembly Speaker and senior MNF leader, Lalrinliana Sailo, resigned from his position as a legislator and switch sides to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Sailo, who secured victory in the Chalfilh seat in the 2018 assembly polls, cited his motivation as “ushering in development” in the state. Reportedly, the decision came after the ruling party denied Sailo a ticket for the upcoming elections on November 7.
