As Mizoram prepares for the upcoming Village Council and Local Council elections scheduled for February 12, the state’s political landscape has been disrupted by allegations of Model Code of Conduct (MCC) violations. Mizoram Sports Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar and Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Vanlalhlana have both denied accusations that they breached the MCC provisions during recent political activities.
Allegations and Show-Cause Notices
The Mizoram State Election Commission (SEC) issued show-cause notices to both ministers after the opposition Mizo National Front (MNF) raised concerns over their actions. The MNF lodged a formal complaint, accusing the two ministers of violating MCC guidelines, which are meant to ensure a level playing field during elections by preventing the misuse of government resources for political gain.
The SEC served notices to Hmar and Vanlalhlana, requesting their explanations by February 3. These developments have garnered significant attention, especially with the election date drawing nearer.
Alleged Violation by PWD Minister Vanlalhlana
The MNF claimed that PWD Minister Vanlalhlana breached the MCC by conducting virtual campaigning from his ministerial office in support of Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) party candidates for the Durtlang local council in Aizawl. A video clip reportedly showing the minister engaging in campaign-related activities from his office circulated widely on social media, prompting the MNF to file their complaint with the SEC.
Under the MCC, government officials are prohibited from using their official positions or government resources to influence voters. The SEC is now investigating the allegations and awaiting a response from the involved parties.
Alleged Violation by Sports Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar
Sports Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar has also faced accusations of violating the MCC. The MNF alleged that Hmar, during a meeting with ZPM candidates in his constituency on January 27, announced several development plans and upcoming projects. These announcements, according to the opposition, contravened the provisions of the MCC, which restricts the announcement of new government projects during the election period to avoid undue influence on voters.
Hmar, however, vehemently denied the allegations, stating that the projects in question were already approved by the government and were not new announcements. At a function held at the ZPM office in Aizawl, Hmar clarified that he had not made any new announcements that would breach the MCC guidelines.
“I did not announce any new projects,” Hmar said. “All the projects I discussed are already approved by the government and are not new.” His statement was an attempt to dispel any accusations of using government resources or projects for electoral purposes.
Submitting Explanations
Both ministers submitted their explanations to the Mizoram State Election Commission on Monday. In their responses, they emphasized that they had not violated the MCC and explained the context of their actions. The SEC is currently reviewing the submitted explanations and will decide on the next course of action once the investigation is complete.
State Election Commissioner H Lalthlangliana confirmed that the SEC is thoroughly examining the explanations provided by the ministers. He assured the public that the commission would make its decision based on a careful review of the facts and evidence.
The Importance of the Model Code of Conduct
The Model Code of Conduct is a crucial framework designed to ensure fair elections and prevent the misuse of government machinery during the electoral process. It includes provisions that prohibit government officials from making promises of new development projects, using public resources for campaigning, or engaging in any activity that could sway voters unfairly.
As Mizoram heads towards the Village Council and Local Council elections, adherence to the MCC becomes even more critical. The outcome of the investigation into the alleged violations by Ministers Hmar and Vanlalhlana will have major implications for the upcoming polls.
Political Implications
The allegations against the two ministers have stirred political tensions in the state, with the MNF accusing the ruling BJP-led government of using its position to influence the outcome of the elections. As the election date approaches, political parties in Mizoram are closely watching the developments, which could have a substantial impact on the voter sentiment.
The Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM), which has been at the center of the controversy, stands by its candidates and claims that it has not violated any electoral guidelines. Meanwhile, the BJP and the ruling government continue to deny any wrongdoing, with both ministers asserting that they have followed all election norms.
As Mizoram gears up for its Village Council and Local Council elections on February 12, the allegations against Ministers Lalnghinglova Hmar and Vanlalhlana over breaching the Model Code of Conduct have sparked a major political debate. While both ministers have denied any wrongdoing, the Mizoram State Election Commission is conducting a thorough investigation into the matter. The final decision on whether the ministers’ actions violate the MCC will play a critical role in shaping the political landscape in the lead-up to the elections.
