K Laltluangkima Elected Unopposed to Rajya Sabha from Mizoram

K Laltluangkima's Unopposed Election

Aizawl, June 19: K Laltluangkima, a prominent figure in the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM), has been elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha seat representing Mizoram.

The Returning Officer, Zothansanga Ralte, who is also the Secretary of the Mizoram Legislative Assembly, confirmed Laltluangkima's election after receiving the necessary clearance from the Election Commission of India.

Voting took place from 9 AM to 4 PM within the Assembly premises, achieving a remarkable voter turnout of 90%. Out of the 40-member House, 36 MLAs participated in the voting process.

Notably, ZPM legislator W Chhuanawma was unable to vote due to health issues, while the two BJP members and the single Congress MLA chose to abstain.

The ruling ZPM, which holds 27 seats in the Assembly, nominated Laltluangkima, while the opposition Mizo National Front (MNF) put forward Zothansangi Hmar.

Reports indicate that Laltluangkima received 26 votes, whereas Hmar garnered support from all 10 MNF legislators. The voting results showed no instances of cross-voting, dispelling earlier speculations.

After the results were announced, Laltluangkima expressed his commitment to addressing issues pertinent to Mizoram in Parliament and collaborating closely with the State Government on matters affecting the populace.

Laltluangkima will take over from the outgoing Rajya Sabha member K Vanlalvena of the MNF, whose term is set to end on July 18.

Since 1972, Mizoram has had only one representative in the Rajya Sabha, following its elevation from a district of Assam to a Union Territory. Over the years, seven individuals have served in this capacity, including Congress leader Hiphei and MNF leader Lalhming Liana, who both held two consecutive terms.

Following the election, the ruling ZPM criticized the BJP and Congress legislators for their decision to boycott the voting process, labeling it as a disregard for democratic values and the electorate.