In Mizoram’s Champhai district, 67 Delete Church members have chosen not to join the electoral roll. Their decision comes from a religious belief about the number 666. The Bible’s Book of Revelation mentions the number. It calls 666 the “Number of the Beast”. The community says voter registration could conflict with its beliefs. As a result, some members also avoid official documents and government services.
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Key Facts
- Location: Champhai, Mizoram
- Community: Delete Church
- Total members: 67
- Estimated eligible voters: 30–40
- Minors: More than 20
- Main concern: Religious belief about 666
- SIR began: May 20
- Final electoral roll: September 7
- Mizoram CEO: Garima Gupta
Why Are They Avoiding the Electoral Roll?
The community has decided not to participate in the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR).
Members recently met Mizoram Chief Electoral Officer Garima Gupta in Champhai. They explained their concerns during the meeting.
However, the members refused to add their names to the electoral roll. They believe official documents could conflict with their faith.
Their concern focuses on the number 666. Revelation 13:18 mentions the number. Christian traditions have linked it to the “Number of the Beast”.
The fear of 666 has a scientific name. Experts call it hexakosioihexekontahexaphobia.
For the Delete Church, the issue involves more than fear of a number. Members worry that government identification systems could expose them to 666.
Some Members Avoid Official Documents
The belief also affects their daily lives.
For instance, some members avoid Aadhaar cards and bank accounts. They also avoid driving licences and ration cards.
In addition, some families have kept their children away from formal school enrolment.
Therefore, the issue extends beyond the electoral process. It can also affect access to banking, education and government services.
Election Officials Meet the Community
Garima Gupta visited Zotland, a neighbourhood in Champhai town. The area lies close to the Myanmar border.
Gupta met the community to understand its concerns. She had earlier held discussions with election officials and local representatives.
Joint CEO Ethel Rothanpuii also attended the meeting. Champhai District Election Officer Ngulzathuama joined the discussion as well.
Assistant Electoral Registration Officer Lalchhuanawma Ralte also took part in the meeting.
The discussion remained cordial. However, the community continued to reject voter registration.
Religious Belief Drives the Decision
Around 30 to 40 members could qualify for voter registration. More than 20 members of the group are minors.
Therefore, the community’s absence from the electoral process does not appear to result from a lack of awareness.
Instead, members have made a deliberate religious choice.
The situation creates a unique challenge for election officials. Authorities want every eligible citizen to join the electoral system. At the same time, they must respect freedom of religion.
Mizoram SIR Nears Completion
Mizoram began its Special Intensive Revision on May 20.
Meanwhile, the electoral exercise has entered its final stage. Officials plan to publish the final electoral roll on September 7.
The Champhai case highlights an unusual issue surrounding voter registration. It also shows how religious beliefs can influence participation in formal civic systems.
What happened in Champhai?
Answer: 67 Delete Church members chose not to register as voters because of their religious concerns about 666.
Why does the community object to 666?
Answer: The number appears in the Book of Revelation. Christian traditions associate it with the “Number of the Beast”.
How many members could vote?
Answer: Around 30 to 40 members could qualify for voter registration.
Which documents do some members avoid?
Answer: Some members avoid Aadhaar cards, bank accounts, driving licences and ration cards.
When will Mizoram publish the final electoral roll?
Answer: Officials plan to publish the final electoral roll on September 7.
Location Context
Champhai is an important border town in Mizoram. It sits close to Myanmar and plays an important role in Northeast India. The case also highlights the region’s diverse religious and social communities.
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