BY PC Bureau
November 9, 2025: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued a stern warning to Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma, accusing him of violating the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by making development-related promises during the campaign for the Dampa Assembly bypoll.
In an official order released late Friday, the poll panel said Lalduhoma’s October 20 speech at Reiek in Mamit district—where he announced plans for a ₹700-crore water supply project drawing from the Tlawng River, distribution of turmeric processing machines to farmers, and infrastructure upgrades—constituted a “clear breach” of the MCC’s provisions.
The ECI cited Part IV, Paragraph (vi) of the code, which bars ministers from announcing new projects or welfare schemes during election periods, saying such actions can “distort the level playing field essential for free and fair polls.”
BREAKING — The ECI has found Mizoram Chief Minister Pu Lalduhoma in violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) during the ongoing bye-election to the 2-Dampa (ST) Assembly Constituency according to an official communication from the Office of the CEO, Mizoram, dated November 8 pic.twitter.com/nwPgWJx7SR
— Noren Ningombam (@Norenimp) November 9, 2025
The bypoll was triggered by the resignation of former ZPM MLA C. Ngunthangvela, who was elected to the Rajya Sabha. The election was notified on October 6, immediately bringing the MCC into effect. Polling is scheduled for November 11, with results due on November 14.
Rejecting Lalduhoma’s defence that the proposals predated the MCC, the ECI emphasized the need for “absolute political neutrality” from those holding public office. It directed the Mamit District Election Officer to formally caution the ruling Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) and monitor the Chief Minister’s future campaign conduct.
The order also instructed ZPM president Richard Vanlalhmangaiha to ensure all 40 star campaigners adhere to the MCC, warning them against inflammatory speeches that could disturb communal harmony in the ethnically sensitive state. A general advisory was also issued to all ministers and officials, urging them to avoid partisan activity and statements that could influence voters.
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The warning followed a complaint filed on October 24 by advocate Zothansangi Hmar, a member of the Mizo National Front (MNF) legal board, who submitted video evidence of Lalduhoma’s rally. The complaint accused the CM of using “the lure of government largesse” to woo voters, and also flagged another alleged violation involving Dr. Lorrain Lalpekliana Chinzah, Lalduhoma’s adviser, for distributing free medicines in the constituency—a case now under ECI scrutiny.
Opposition leaders hailed the ECI’s decision with MNF chief Zoramthanga calling it a “timely intervention to protect democratic fairness,” while Congress candidate Lalthanzawna urged the commission to consider stronger penalties, including possible disqualification.
This is not Lalduhoma’s first run-in with the MCC. Earlier this year, the Mizoram State Election Commission had probed similar complaints during local council polls, when he faced criticism for holding party meetings at his official residence.
With the Dampa bypoll crucial for ZPM’s wafer-thin majority after recent defections, the Chief Minister’s team has since scaled back large rallies and shifted to door-to-door outreach, avoiding any fresh policy announcements.
As campaigning enters its final days, the ECI’s warning serves as a reminder of the fine line between governance and electioneering in India’s poll-bound states.
