The assembly elections in five states—Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Mizoram, and Telangana—have far-reaching implications for the nation’s political arena. These states collectively hold sway over 83 Lok Sabha seats, with a pronounced emphasis on the Hindi heartland, specifically Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan. The aftermath of these elections is anticipated to significantly influence the trajectory leading up to the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, particularly for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress (INC). The BJP’s triumph in these assembly elections is pivotal, serving as a barometer of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s popularity and the party’s resilience against anti-incumbency sentiments. In contrast, opposition parties, especially the Congress, confront a formidable landscape. The outcomes are poised not only to mould the political dynamics within these states but also contribute to the evolving narrative that will shape the 2024 General Elections.
Reuters’ article “Five Indian states to vote in key elections in November—election panel,” published on October 9, 2023, discusses upcoming elections in five Indian states—Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, and Mizoram—as a key indicator of voter sentiment, especially in states crucial for the BJP. The elections scheduled are expected to reveal public attitudes towards the BJP, which remains popular nationally but faces concerns over inflation, unemployment, and an uneven post-COVID-19 economic recovery. The Congress party, leading the Indian National Development Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), currently governs in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, while the BJP rules Madhya Pradesh, and its ally is in power in Mizoram. The article notes that the BJP is expected to face tough competition in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh, with the opposition INDIA alliance posing a challenge. Congress leader, Rahul Gandhi, expresses confidence in winning several states, citing public dissatisfaction with issues like unemployment and rising prices. The BJP has not yet responded to these comments. The results are anticipated on December 3, providing insights into the political landscape ahead of the 2024 General Elections.
The Hindu’s report, titled, “Assembly Elections 2023 | Election Commission announces polling dates for five States; only Chhattisgarh to vote in two phases,” published on October 9, 2023, mentions that the Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced the schedule for the assembly elections in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Telangana, and Mizoram. The voting will take place from November 7 to November 30, with results expected on December 3. Chhattisgarh will vote in two phases, and the other four states will have a single-phase election. The elections are considered significant as they are viewed as a prelude to the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. The chief election commissioner, Rajiv Kumar, emphasised the measures to ensure inducement-free polls and mentioned the inclusion of over 2,900 polling stations managed by youth. The focus is on addressing state-specific issues raised by political parties, and the ECI aims to conduct free, fair, and inducement-free elections. The article also includes reactions from political leaders and updates on election-related activities.
The Hindu’s report, titled, “Caste, economy, OBC politics top agenda as five States head for elections in November,” written by Anando Bhakto, published on October 10, 2023, explains that the Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced assembly elections in five states, considered a litmus test for the 2024 General Election. The voting is scheduled in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, and Mizoram, with results expected to set political trends in the Hindi heartland. The BJP and Congress are the key contenders, and a Congress victory in two or more states could boost the opposition. The elections are seen as a semi-final and a referendum on issues like caste-based census, reservations, and identity politics. The Congress, emphasising a caste census, aims to address livelihood issues, while there is a divided opinion on whether the OBC (other backward classes) strategy will pay off for the opposition. The BJP, relying on Prime Minister Modi’s credibility, may counter with the Rohini Commission to sub-categorise OBCs. The outcome will shape the political landscape and influence strategies for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.
Outlook’s article, titled, “Congress And BJP Are Both Batting For The Holy Cow This Assembly Elections,” written by Rakhi Bose, published on December 3, 2023, discusses the political significance of cow-related issues in Indian elections, focusing on the strategies employed by the BJP and Congress. The BJP, historically associated with cow protectionism, has used it to appeal to the Hindu identity and agrarian vote banks. This involved strengthening cow protection laws and promoting schemes like distributing cows. The Congress, traditionally less involved in cow politics, has recently adopted similar strategies in states it governs, presenting cow welfarism as part of a sustainable economy-ecology approach.
In Chhattisgarh, the Congress’s “Godhan Nyay Yojana,” which involves purchasing cow dung for vermicompost, gained farmer approval. In Rajasthan, the Congress government retained and expanded the “cow tax” initiated by the BJP, spending public money on cow welfare. Karnataka’s Congress, after winning elections, purified the assembly building with cow urine but has not repealed anti-cow slaughter laws. In Telangana, both the BJP and Congress have promised measures related to cows in their manifestos for the 2024 General Elections.
The article questions the direct benefits of these cow welfare schemes to farmers, with claims that funds do not reach them effectively. However, it highlights the political advantage these initiatives bring to the parties, particularly the Congress, framing it as a move towards “soft Hindutva” to garner support in predominantly Hindu states. The holy cow’s role in electoral success for the Congress is yet to be determined in upcoming assembly elections.
An article from The Economic Times, “Decoding the polls in five states: The issues, the stakes and the odds,” published on October 9, 2023, discusses upcoming state elections in five states, considered as semi-finals for the next Lok Sabha elections in India. Chhattisgarh will have two phases, and the other four states will vote in one phase. It mentions that the elections are seen as a significant indicator of the popularity of the BJP and the Congress-INDIA alliance, setting the stage for the Lok Sabha elections. The focus is on Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, and Mizoram.
- In Rajasthan, the Congress government, led by Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, is emphasising populist welfare schemes, while the BJP highlights issues of law and order and corruption.
- Madhya Pradesh faces a tight contest between the BJP and Congress, with anti-incumbency sentiment and factionalism playing a role. The BJP is emphasising development during its rule.
- Chhattisgarh, won by Congress in 2018, sees Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel facing challenges from the BJP, which accuses the government of corruption. Baghel emphasises pro-poor welfare schemes.
- Telangana witnesses a triangular contest between the ruling Bharat Rashtra Samithi (TRS), Congress, and the BJP. The TRS aims to retain power under Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao, facing allegations from the opposition.
- Mizoram has a two-party system dominated by Mizo National Front (MNF) and Congress, with MNF allied with the BJP’s Northeast Democratic Alliance. The Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) is seen as a rising challenger.
Basically, the article highlights specific issues, challenges, and strategies in each state, contributing to the broader political landscape in India.
mint’s report, “Assembly Elections Exit Poll Results 2023: KCR may lose Telangana, BJP dominating in Rajasthan, MP,” published on December 1, 2023, provides insights into the exit poll results for the 2023 Assembly Elections in five Indian states: Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Telangana, Chhattisgarh, and Mizoram. According to exit polls by India Today-Axis My India and Jan Ki Baat, there is a closely contested battle between the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. The final results are scheduled to be declared on December 3.
In Telangana, Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao, the leader of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), is expected to face a tough challenge from the Congress, as per the exit polls, which indicate a lead for the Congress. Rajasthan witnesses a close competition, with Congress likely to win in one constituency and the BJP in the other. Madhya Pradesh’s polls show diverse results, ranging from a close fight to a hung assembly. BJP leader Shivraj Singh Chouhan expresses confidence in BJP’s support. Chhattisgarh sees a close contest, with Congress emerging as the winner. Former chief minister, Raman Singh, dismisses predictions, asserting that BJP will win with a clear majority. In Mizoram, the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) is anticipated to win 15–25 seats against the Mizo National Front (MNF).
Congress leader Digvijaya Singh assures over 130 seats in Madhya Pradesh, while conflicting predictions arise regarding the outcome in Rajasthan. The article includes statements from various political figures expressing their opinions on the exit poll results, with some emphasising the importance of awaiting the final results on December 3. It acknowledges that exit polls may be subject to inaccuracies, as voters may not always reveal their actual choices.
An article from Al Jazeera, “India’s BJP wins three of four state polls months before national election,” published on December 3, 2023, reveals that India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has secured victories in three out of four key state elections, according to the election commission’s website. The elections, held in Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, and Mizoram, were seen as a crucial test before the national vote scheduled in less than six months. The BJP won in Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan, while also likely being re-elected in Madhya Pradesh for a record fifth term. The Congress comfortably won in Telangana, while Mizoram’s results were pending. The elections indicate the voter sentiment ahead of the national elections, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a third consecutive term. Despite some setbacks for the Congress, a new opposition alliance, called INDIA, led by the Congress, is expected to challenge the BJP nationally.
The article from The Wire, “Three Things BJP’s Definitive Victory in the Assembly Elections Tells Us,”written by Deepanshu Mohan, published on December 3, 2023, discusses the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) dominant victory in three key state assemblies—Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh. While the Congress managed a win in Telangana, questions arise about its role in the national opposition alliance, INDIA, ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. The article also criticises the Congress, especially the Gandhi family, for its failure to provide a clear vision and accuses them of contributing to factionalism and disorganisation within the party. It underscores the need for a more organised and visionary approach to challenge the BJP’s ruthlessly pragmatic vision in the 2024 General Elections. It says that an aggressive push for Hindutva politics, the BJP’s poor-centric welfarism, and a nationalist developmental agenda contribute to its success, particularly in northern Hindi-speaking states. The article further highlights constituency-wise party-voter shares, emphasising the BJP’s appeal to the other backward classes (OBC) in the north, contrasting with the Congress’s support in southern states like Karnataka. It highlights the preference for decisive mandates and the impact of grassroots-level unity, as observed in the Congress victories in Karnataka and Telangana. A regional divide is evident, with southern states resisting the BJP’s Hindutva model and prioritising issues related to basic amenities, health care, education, and social security. The Congress, despite having a better organisational cohort in the south, faces challenges in presenting a coherent vision against the BJP.
Outlook’s article, “Assembly Elections 2023: Representation Of Female Candidates Continue To Remain Low Despite Women-Oriented Promises,” published on December 4, 2023, highlights the gender disparity in political representation during the recent state assembly elections in India. Despite political parties promising women-centric policies, the actual representation of women candidates remains significantly low. Both the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress fell short in fielding women candidates in states like Rajasthan.
Promises aimed at women voters included various schemes and benefits, such as subsidised LPG cylinders, free rides on public transport, CCTV cameras for women’s safety, and reservation in the police force. However, the article notes that women’s representation falls below 12 per cent in both the BJP and Congress across states, significantly below the 33.33 per cent target set by the Women’s Reservation Bill.
In the recent elections, Congress allocated 28 tickets to women candidates, while the BJP provided 20 in the 200-member Rajasthan assembly. Similar underrepresentation was observed in other states like Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, and Mizoram. Despite commitments to enhance women’s representation, the actual numbers remain low, and women’s performance in past electoral cycles has seen fluctuations. The article emphasises the need to provide fair opportunities for women candidates to prove their “winnability” and highlights the impact of female candidates on voters as a step towards decreasing gender parity in politics.
The article from The Wire, “To Defeat BJP in an Increasingly Bipolar India, the Congress Would Need Much More Passion,” by Ajoy Ashirwad Mahaprashasta, published on December 03, 2023, analyses recent state assembly elections, highlighting the BJP’s 3–1 victory in key northern states and the Congress’s success in Telangana. It emphasises the BJP’s dominance in the Hindi belt, attributing it to increase vote shares through anti-corruption campaigns against Congress. The trend of bi-polar elections, seen in both northern and southern states, underscores the need for strategic considerations. The article criticises Congress’s campaign lapses in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan, and suggests that leaders failed to effectively tackle anti-Hindu perceptions, articulate achievements, or connect with voters passionately. Despite post-poll momentum, the BJP’s election management outshone Congress. The Congress’s failure to fight elections under the banner of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) is seen as a missed opportunity urging collaboration for effective opposition in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.
Outlook’s article, “The Sanatan Vote,” written by Rakhi Bose, published on December 5, 2023, discusses the controversy surrounding the term “Sanatan Dharma” and its impact on the recent assembly elections 2023 in India. The controversy arose when Tamil Nadu youth welfare and sports minister, Udhayanidhi Stalin, of the DMK allegedly compared Sanatan Dharma to diseases like dengue, malaria, or corona, calling for its abolition. This led to a political slugfest, with the opposition parties labelling Congress and its alliance partners as “anti-Hindu”.
The BJP strategically focused on the “Sanatan vote” in Hindu-dominant states, and the election results, particularly in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan, suggest a “Sanatan consolidation” in favour of the BJP. Some analysts attribute the Congress’s poor performance to the controversy, stating that it went against the religiosity of Hindu Congress voters. The BJP, known for being the voice of Hindus, capitalised on the controversy and made efforts to secure the Hindu vote across states.
In Madhya Pradesh, the BJP pushed the “Sanatan” agenda, with Prime Minister Modi as the face of the campaign. Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed a rally in a Hindu-majority district, emphasising the celebration of three Diwalis, including the consecration of Lord Ram in Ayodhya. Similar attempts to woo the “Sanatan vote” were made in other states. The article highlights incidents of communal polarisation and violence in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, suggesting their impact on electoral outcomes. The BJP’s focus on issues like the development of Shakti Peeths and the Ram Lalla Darshan scheme contributed to its success in Chhattisgarh. The overall analysis suggests that understanding the opponent’s strategy is crucial for the Congress as it prepares for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.
The Wire’s article, “The Myth of BJP’s Hat-Trick and What the Statistics Really Say,” written by Yogendra Yadav, published on December 5, 2023, questions the widely accepted notion of a “hat-trick” victory for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the recent assembly elections, challenging the assumption that it guarantees success in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The author examines the vote share and differences in the states where the BJP claimed victory and highlights that, despite winning, the BJP received fewer votes than the Congress overall.
The historical context is invoked to argue that state assembly election outcomes do not necessarily predict Lok Sabha results. The BJP lost these states in the 2018 Assembly Elections but went on to win them in the 2019 Lok Sabha Elections. The analysis emphasises that the nature of state and national elections differs, cautioning against drawing direct conclusions. The article outlines the electoral challenge for the BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections, stressing that their dominance in the Hindi belt does not guarantee success nationally. It suggests that the BJP must focus on retaining seats in states crucial to the Lok Sabha, such as Karnataka, Maharashtra, Bihar, and West Bengal. Finally, the article presents a hypothetical scenario for the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections based on the 2023 assembly results, indicating that the BJP might face a loss of seats, while the Congress could gain. The author dismisses the idea of “Modi magic” as a decisive factor, calling for a cautious approach and questioning the need to extrapolate national outcomes from state elections.
The article from The Wire, “The Morning After: 15 Takeaways from the Four State Election Results,” by Seema Chishti, published on December 4, 2023, focuses on the recent assembly elections in three north Indian states: Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh, collectively contributing 65 MPs, with the BJP holding 61 seats. Despite previous setbacks, the BJP’s success reinforces its strength. Anti-incumbency sentiments resulted in the removal of two Congress chief ministers and one from the Bharat Rashtra Committee (BRS). The article questions whether Madhya Pradesh is becoming the new Gujarat for the BJP, emphasising consistent higher vote shares. The absence of the “double engine” narrative and the reliance on direct connections to Delhi raise questions about the BJP’s leadership. Congress’s win in Telangana is seen as positive, indicating a potential comeback in the Telugu states and impacting alliances for the Congress in the neighbouring states. The article discusses the BJP’s use of Hindutva in North India, questioning the effectiveness of Congress adopting a similar approach. It suggests a humbler Congress aligned with India may be a better opposition leader. The focus on welfare models, the debate between handouts and comprehensive health care, and social security are examined, with speculation on potential privatisation. The impact of party defections on election outcomes is considered, with high-profile defectors experiencing losses. The caste census debate is explored, emphasising the need for a comprehensive campaign. The article raises concerns about the “Modi guarantee” campaign’s implications for central power, highlighting the rise in impunity and challenges to democracy noted in the recent international reports.
State-Wise Analysis
Madhya Pradesh
The Caravan magazine’s article, “The 2023 Madhya Pradesh election explained,” written by Abhay Regi, published on November 21, 2023, provides an overview of the Madhya Pradesh assembly elections that took place on November 17, focusing on key parties, regions, candidates, and constituencies. The state has a history of alternating between Congress and BJP rule, with the latter dominating in recent years. The elections are crucial for the BJP to demonstrate Prime Minister Modi’s electoral influence in the Hindi belt. The article breaks down the state into six regions, detailing the political dynamics, prominent leaders, and key issues in each. It highlights how certain regions have been traditionally strongholds for either the BJP or Congress, discussing factors like caste equations, agrarian distress, and historical trends that might influence the election outcome. The article also emphasises the significance of the Congress’s campaign, led by Kamal Nath, and the challenges faced by both major and smaller parties in the electoral landscape.
Outlook’s article, “Analysing The Scindia Factor In Gwalior-Chambal Belt As BJP Wins MP,” published on December 3, 2023, analyses the political scenario in the Gwalior-Chambal region of Madhya Pradesh, focusing on the influence of Jyotiraditya Scindia. Despite the BJP’s recent setback in the Gwalior municipal elections, the region is witnessing a close competition between the BJP and Congress in the latest trends for the Assembly elections. It highlights Scindia’s switch from the Congress to the BJP in 2020, driven by internal disagreements and unmet expectations. The departure of Scindia and 22 MLAs to the BJP in 2020 led to by-elections, with the BJP winning nine out of 16 seats in the Gwalior-Chambal region. The article emphasises the uncertainty about the BJP’s performance in the region due to the surprising Congress victory in the 2022 Gwalior municipal elections, breaking a 58-year streak.
mint’s report, “MP Election Results 2023 Highlights: BJP secures landslide victory in key contest ahead of Lok Sabha polls,” published on December 4, 2023, reports the results of the Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections in 2023. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured a landslide victory, winning 163 seats out of 230, giving them a two-thirds majority. The Congress, in contrast, managed to secure only 66 seats. The election results were met with celebrations by BJP leaders, who credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the party’s success. The article also mentions reactions from various political figures, including Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan expressing gratitude for the win and Congress leader Kamal Nath accepting the decision of the voters. Additionally, there are reports of violence in Shajapur following the defeat of a Congress candidate, and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) asserting that the assembly results do not reflect the nation’s mood for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. The BJP’s victory is seen as a significant development, with implications for the political landscape leading up to the national elections.
The Hindu’s article, “Madhya Pradesh Assembly election | Corruption didn’t sway votes from BJP,” written by Rahul Weston and Rishikesh Yadav, published on December, 7, 2023, discusses the post-poll data from Lokniti-CSDS (Centre for the Study of Developing Societies) on the Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections, highlighting voters’ unwavering allegiance to the ruling BJP led by Shivraj Singh Chouhan despite concerns about corruption. The survey found that 62 per cent of voters believed that corruption in the state had increased, but this perception did not translate into an anti-BJP vote. Less than half of those who thought corruption had increased voted for the Congress. Additionally, 43 per cent still perceived the BJP as an anti-corruption party, indicating that many did not directly blame the state government for corruption. While corruption was a major consideration for over two-thirds of voters, it did not significantly impact the BJP’s vote share, with the party maintaining a decent 43 per cent share even among those for whom corruption was a significant factor. In contrast, the Congress received only 45 per cent of votes among this group. The conclusion suggests that voters have multiple considerations in making their choices, and while corruption mattered, it did not have enough influence to sway their votes decisively.
The Hindu’s article, “How much did women contribute to BJP’s success in Madhya Pradesh?”, written by Jyoti Mishra and Saloni Kumari, published on December 7, 2023, focuses on the political preferences of men and women in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections. The BJP-led government aimed to appeal to women through women-centric welfare schemes, and the elections saw a higher turnout of women voters in 34 Assembly constituencies. Despite women voting less overall than men, the analysis shows that both men and women in Madhya Pradesh generally leaned towards the BJP over the Congress. Specifically, 43 per cent of women voted for Congress, while 47 per cent supported the BJP, with urban women showing a stronger inclination towards the BJP compared to rural women. The impact of campaigns on voting choices was more pronounced among women, with a slight edge for the BJP among women deciding late. The article also highlights that women beneficiaries of certain welfare schemes tended to favour the BJP. However, it concludes that the BJP’s victory cannot be solely attributed to women voters despite their slight advantage in gender terms
The Indian Express’ article, “Decode politics: As dust settles, here are 5 reasons why BJP won MP, and Cong lost plot,” written by Anand Mohan J, published on December 8, 2023, explains that the BJP’s resounding victory in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly elections can be attributed to a multifaceted strategy. Firstly, the effective implementation of welfare schemes, such as the Ladli Behna Yojana, targeting the poorest sections of society, played a pivotal role, garnering widespread support. Chief Minister Chouhan’s astute focus on women voters, offering subsidies and increased job reservations, particularly during festive times, proved successful in countering Congress’s promises. Additionally, the BJP’s strategic ticket distribution, announcing candidates’ lists early and managing dissidence, contributed significantly, resulting in garnering around 20–25 seats. The decision to adopt a collective leadership approach, not projecting a CM face but fielding various party leaders, effectively countered the prevailing 20-year anti-incumbency sentiment. The BJP’s focused outreach to tribal and Dalit constituencies, coupled with developmental projects and celebrations of tribal icons, secured crucial support. Lastly, meticulous election management led by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, involving specific targets for booth-level workers and ideological training, contrasted with Congress’s organisational challenges and ineffective booth-level management. This comprehensive strategy propelled the BJP to a decisive victory in Madhya Pradesh.
The Hindu’s article, “Ujjain BJP MLA Mohan Yadav to be new Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh,” written by Mehul Malpani, published on December 11, 2023, reveals that the BJP announced Ujjain-Dakshin MLA Dr Mohan Yadav as the legislature party leader and the next Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh. Dr Yadav, an OBC leader, will be joined by two deputy CMs—Jagdish Devda, a Dalit, and Rajendra Shukla, a Brahmin. Narendra Singh Tomar will be the next Assembly Speaker. The new government aims to represent diverse sections of the population, with OBCs constituting 52 per cent and nearly 17 per cent being from the Scheduled Caste in the state. The swearing-in ceremony is expected to take place after December 13.
Rajasthan
India Today’s report, “Rajasthan election 2023 dates, full schedule, results: All you need to know” mentions that the Election Commission has announced the elections in Rajasthan Assembly to be conducted in a single phase on November 23, and results will be declared on December 3. Rajasthan has 200 Assembly constituencies, and the term of the current Assembly ends on January 14, 2024. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar mentioned that Rajasthan has 5.2 crore voters, and a total of 51,756 polling stations will be set up, including 10,415 in urban areas and 41,341 in rural areas.
The Financial Express’ report, “Rajasthan Election 2023 Voting Highlights: Polling concludes, fate of 1,862 candidates in 199 seats sealed,” published on November 26, 2023, provides live updates on the Rajasthan Assembly elections held on November 25, 2023. The provisional data from the Election Commission indicates a voter turnout of 70.35 per cent. The voting commenced at 7 a.m. and concluded at 6 p.m. in 199 out of the 200 assembly constituencies, with polling in Karanpur postponed due to the death of the Congress candidate.
Key highlights of the Rajasthan Assembly elections include a significant voter turnout, starting at nearly 10 per cent in the first two hours and reaching 68.24 per cent by 5 p.m. A total of 55,507 polling booths were established across the state. Incidents of violence were reported in Dholpur and Sikar. Chief Electoral Officer Praveen Gupta highlighted live webcasting at 26,393 polling stations. The article also features updates on key political figures like Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot, BJP leader Vasundhara Raje, and Congress leader Sachin Pilot. The Election Commission outlined the election schedule, with results expected on December 3, 2023. The article also mentions statements from various political leaders expressing confidence and opinions on voter turnout, election dynamics, and the performance of different parties.
mint’s report, “Rajasthan Election Results 2023 Highlights: BJP wrests power from Congress as Ashok Gehlot leaves Centre stage,” published on December 3, 2023, revealed that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has won the Rajasthan Assembly Election 2023, securing 115 seats against the 69 seats of the Congress. The victory adds to the BJP’s success in the Hindi heartland. The election was marked by intense campaigning, a paper leak scandal, internal conflicts within the ruling Congress party, and political exchanges. Prominent figures like Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot from Congress won seats, but BJP’s Vasundhara Raje also emerged victorious. The Congress-led government saw the defeat of 17 out of 25 ministers, indicating a significant power shift. The BJP’s triumph was celebrated in Delhi, while Congress leaders blamed electronic voting machines (EVMs) for their defeat. With discussions about the next Chief Minister for Rajasthan, names like Vasundhara Raje and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat are being considered. The election results reflect a setback for Congress in the Hindi heartland, leading to discussions on the party’s strategy for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
The Hindu’s article, “Satisfied with Ashok Gehlot government, but more so with Central government,” written by Vibha Attri and Rahul Weston, published on December 6, 2023, analyses the outcome of the recent Rajasthan Assembly elections in the context of voter satisfaction with the incumbent Congress government. Despite a high overall satisfaction rate of 69 per cent, specific issues such as price rise and unemployment contributed to discontent. The study reveals that, although voters were satisfied with the State government, the performance of the Central government under Narendra Modi received higher ratings. Economic concerns, such as rising prices and unemployment, played a significant role in voter dissatisfaction. Interestingly, even among those satisfied with the Congress government, a notable proportion voted for the BJP. The data suggests that voters considered multiple factors, including party loyalty, caste, identity, and local issues, in addition to the government’s performance, when making their electoral choices. The article highlights the complex dynamics influencing voters’ decisions and challenges the notion that performance alone determines election outcomes.
The Hindu’s article, “Why the Congress lost Rajasthan,” written by Sanjay Lodha, Sandeep Shastri, Suhas Palshikar and Sanjay Kumar, published on December 6, 2023, discusses the recent Rajasthan Assembly election results, highlighting the trend of the state’s historical preference for alternating political parties. Despite a high level of satisfaction with the Congress government and Ashok Gehlot being the preferred Chief Minister, the BJP won due to various factors. Corruption was a significant concern, with 57 per cent believing it increased in the last five years. Price rise, paper leaks, crimes against women, and the influence of Narendra Modi and Ashok Gehlot played crucial roles in voters’ decisions. The BJP gained support from women and voters below 25, and a significant portion decided their vote after the campaign began. The refusal to forge alliances with sub-regional parties, demographic factors like age and education, and a rich-poor divide were also influential in the election outcome. The Congress lost seats despite an increase in vote share, mainly due to regional variations and its failure to form alliances with sub-regional parties.
Hindustan Times’ report, “Rajasthan CM Announcement LIVE Updates: BJP central observers reach Jaipur, meet at 4 pm” reveals that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is set to announce the new Chief Minister of Rajasthan after winning the recent elections. A BJP legislature party meeting is scheduled for 4 p.m., where the decision will be made in the presence of BJP central observer Rajnath Singh and co-observers Saroj Pandey and Vinod Tawde. Attendance is mandatory for all newly elected MLAs, and the announcement will be made during the meeting. Potential candidates include former CM Vasundhara Raje, MLA Baba Balaknath, Union ministers Arjun Ram Meghwal, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and Ashwini Vaishnaw. High-stakes negotiations have been ongoing for over 10 days following the BJP’s victory with 115 seats out of 199. The delay has led to concerns about the impact on works of public interest. The central observers have reached Jaipur for the announcement.
Hindustan Times’ report, “First-time MLA Bhajan Lal Sharma to be new Rajasthan chief minister; Diya Kumari, Prem Chand Bairwa to be deputy CMs,” published on December 12, 2023, reveals that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has chosen Bhajan Lal Sharma, a first-time MLA from the Sanganer assembly constituency, as the Chief Minister of Rajasthan. The decision follows the BJP’s significant victory in the recent elections in the state. Diya Kumari and Prem Chand Bairwa have been named Deputy Chief Ministers, while Vasudev Devnani is set to become the new Rajasthan Assembly Speaker. Former Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje, who was initially considered a frontrunner for the top post, proposed Sharma’s name. The central team overseeing the selection process included defence minister Rajnath Singh. The BJP won 115 out of 199 seats in the Rajasthan elections. In Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, the BJP has made surprise choices, selecting Mohan Yadav and Vishnu Deo Sai, respectively, with an eye on caste equations ahead of the 2024 general elections.
Chhattisgarh
Frontline magazine’s article, “Chhattisgarh election: Impressive turnout in first phase amid tight security,” written by Ashutosh Sharma, published on November 2, 2023, explains the first phase of voting in Chhattisgarh, covering 20 constituencies across seven districts, including the Bastar region affected by left-wing extremism, has concluded. The election will decide the fate of 223 candidates, including 25 women. The remaining 70 seats in the 90-member Chhattisgarh Assembly will have voting on November 17, with results expected on December 3. The Congress and BJP are engaged in allegations of financial corruption and illegal money use for poll expenses. The State has seen raids by ED, CBI, and IT, criticised by Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel as influencing elections in favour of the BJP. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has targeted Baghel over the alleged Mahadev betting app scam. The BJP shared a video claiming the real owner paid Rs 508 crore to Baghel. The ED is investigating the alleged payment. The BJP-led central government banned 21 illegal betting apps, including Mahadev, on November 5. The Congress and BJP have expressed confidence in new faces during ticket distribution. In Rajnandgaon, former CM Raman Singh is contesting against Congress’s Girish Dewangan. The Congress focuses on welfare schemes, while the BJP criticises unfulfilled promises, corruption, and economic development.
The Hindu’s report, “Chhattisgarh election Phase 2 updates | 68.15 per cent voter turnout recorded,” published on November 17, 2023, mentions the second phase of polling in Chhattisgarh for its 90-seat Assembly took place on November 17, covering 70 constituencies across 22 districts. The tentative turnout recorded till 5 p.m. was 68.15 per cent, with exceptions in Naxal-affected Bindranawagarh seat, where voting took place from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. A jawan of the Indo Tibetan Border Police was killed in a blast triggered by Naxalites in Gariaband district during the return of a polling team. The fate of prominent candidates, including Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, Deputy T.S. Singh Deo, and BJP State president Arun Sao, was determined in this phase. Several incidents, including the death of an ITBP jawan in a Naxal-triggered blast and the boycott of elections by some villages over development issues, marked the polling day. The second phase featured key candidates like Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, his deputy T.S. Singh Deo, and other prominent figures. The Chhattisgarh Election Watch and Association for Democratic Reforms reported that out of 953 candidates, 100 (10 per cent) face criminal cases.
The campaigning period was marked by allegations and counter-allegations of financial corruption between the Congress and the BJP, with raids by various investigative agencies. The Congress focused on its Chhattisgarhi pride project, emphasising schemes for farmers, tribals, and the poor, while the BJP criticised unfulfilled promises, corruption, and women’s safety. The election results, to be counted on December 3, will shape the political landscape in Chhattisgarh.
The Indian Express’ report, “Chhattisgarh Election Result 2023: Full List of Winners,” published on December 4, 2023, reveals that in the Chhattisgarh Assembly Election 2023, the BJP secured a significant victory, winning 54 seats and forming the government, overturning the previous Congress-led administration. This outcome contradicted exit polls that predicted a return for the Congress. The BJP’s success was particularly notable in tribal-dominated divisions like Surguja and Bastar, contributing significantly to the Congress’s 2018 victory. Despite early predictions of a close fight, the BJP’s victory marked a turnaround from the 2018 elections. The Election Commission released the full list of winners from all 90 constituencies, with the BJP winning key areas. The election occurred in two phases, with voter turnout recorded at 68.15 per cent in the second phase and 78 per cent in the first phase. Notable winners included Bhupesh Baghel (Congress) in the Patan constituency, Renuka Singh Saruta (BJP) in Bharatpur-Sonhat (ST) constituency, Dr Raman Singh (BJP) in the Rajnandgaon constituency, Savitri Manoj Mandavi (Congress) in Bhanupratappur (ST) constituency, and Asha Ram Netam (BJP) in the Kanker (ST) constituency. The BJP’s success marked a significant political development in Chhattisgarh, leading to the formation of a new government.
The Hindu’s article, “In Chhattisgarh, lack of jobs, price rise, and corruption bring down Congress government,” written by Suhas Palshikar, Suhas Palshikar, Sanjay Kumar and Sandeep Shastri, published on December 8, 2023, explains the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured a surprising victory in Chhattisgarh, which was unexpected based on many exit polls that projected a close fight or a Congress win. The BJP’s success, with a four-fold increase in seats since the last election, can be attributed to factors such as unemployment, price rise, and corruption that worked against the Congress. The BJP’s election campaign, perceptions of the Narendra Modi-led central government, and dissatisfaction with the Bhupesh Baghel-led state government also played a role.
Survey data revealed that the central government received higher appreciation levels, influencing voters in favour of the BJP. While the state government’s handling of farmers’ distress received a reasonable rating, it performed poorly on issues like unemployment, corruption, and rising prices. The election campaign proved influential, with only 23 per cent deciding their vote before the formal election process began, and two-thirds deciding during the campaign period. Those who decided during the campaign tended to vote more for the BJP. The Modi factor significantly influenced 17 per cent of voters, and the absence of a declared chief minister face in the BJP’s campaign, as opposed to Congress highlighting Chief Minister Baghel, worked in favour of the BJP. Corruption and unemployment were key elements in the BJP’s campaign. The survey data also highlighted the BJP’s broad support across age groups, genders, education levels, and urban and rural areas. The BJP had a lead among both poor and rich voters, securing a notable victory in Chhattisgarh.
The Hindu’s article, “Congress’s tribal identity push was smart politics but did not help electorally,” written by Sanjay Kumar, published on December 8, 2023, explains that in Chhattisgarh, tribal support is crucial, constituting a third of the Assembly seats and nearly a third of the population. In the recent elections, the Congress, previously supported by tribal communities, attempted to retain their favour by opposing the Uniform Civil Code, emphasising tribal customary rights. The BJP, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aimed to secure tribal support through development initiatives and political representation. The BJP’s success in Chhattisgarh was attributed to gains in tribal belts like Bastar and Surguja.
The incumbent Congress government struggled to convince tribal voters of its efforts to protect their rights, leading to a sharp division of tribal votes. Among those who credited both central and state governments for tribal rights, the BJP had an advantage. The religious conversion of tribal people, particularly the Ghar Wapsi campaign by the BJP, became a contentious issue. While the Congress opposed it, nearly half of the voters supported the campaign, with a majority of them favouring the BJP.
The Indian Express’ article, “Vishnu Deo Sai’s turnaround: Replaced as state BJP chief pre-polls, named Chhattisgarh CM post-victory,” written by Jayprakash S. Naidu, published on December 11, 2023, explains that Former Union Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, who was replaced as Chhattisgarh BJP president last year, has been appointed the state’s new Chief Minister. This surprising turn of events follows Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s promise to make Sai a “bada aadmi” if the BJP won the elections. Vishnu Deo Sai, a four-time Lok Sabha MP and a senior tribal leader from Surguja in north Chhattisgarh, was named Chhattisgarh BJP chief three times but was replaced ahead of the previous Assembly polls. His appointment is seen as a move by the central leadership to respect seniority and bridge various sections within the party. Sai’s political career began in the 1980s, and he won the Kunkuri seat in the recent elections by 25,541 votes, contributing to the BJP’s victory in tribal regions.
Telangana
Deccan Chronicle’s article, “Game on in Telangana: Four parties and one election,” written by Sriram Karri, published on June 30, 2023, explains as the 7 narrative battle, exemplified by Congress showcasing BRS leaders joining them, countered by the BRS parading a massive convoy in Maharashtra. The BJP’s decline in Telangana is noted, as internal dissent and perceived closeness to BRS erode its standing. The BRS grapples with an abundance of candidates and a demographic divide, while the resurgent Congress gains ground with support from Dalits, Reddys, and Muslims. Money’s role in the election is discussed, and AIMIM, led by Asaduddin Owaisi, emerges as a potential X-factor. The evolving dynamics create uncertainty, with all parties hopeful yet nervous in the lead-up to the polls.
mint’s article, “Telangana Assembly Elections 2023: Polling dates declared; voting on Nov 30, counting on Dec 3,” written by Sounak Mukhopadhyay, published on October 9, 2023, reveals that the Election Commission of India has announced that Assembly Elections in Telangana will take place on November 30, with counting on December 3. The elections will be part of a larger schedule that includes Mizoram, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan. Telangana is poised for a three-way contest among the BJP, ruling Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), and the Congress. In the previous 2018 election, BRS won 88 out of 119 seats with a dominant vote share of 47.4 per cent, while Congress secured 19 seats with a 28.7 per cent vote share.
Outlook, in its article, “Telangana Elections: What Is A ‘Red Alert’ Constituency? Why Should It Matter To Voters?”, published on November 7, 2023, explains that ahead of the announcement, the Election Commission held a meeting with observers to ensure control over the influence of money power. Meanwhile, in Kerala, the Congress has expressed concerns about the Narendra Modi government potentially returning to power for a third time, warning it could lead the country to destruction. To counter this, the Congress aims to unite secular groups under the INDIA bloc or front to prevent the BJP from winning a third term. Former Leader of Opposition in the Kerala assembly, Ramesh Chennithala, emphasised the party’s intention to prevent the BJP’s return to power at any cost.
In the lead-up to the Telangana Assembly election, the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) has identified 96 out of 119 constituencies (81 per cent) as ‘red alert’ due to three or more candidates facing criminal charges. This contravenes Supreme Court directions preventing candidates with criminal cases from contesting. A total of 521 out of 2,290 candidates (23 per cent) in the election have declared criminal cases, a rise from 66 per cent in 2018. The trend is seen across parties, with the Congress, BJP, BRS, BSP, and AIMIM having candidates with criminal charges. Despite Supreme Court directives, parties provided unsubstantiated reasons for fielding such candidates, ignoring qualifications and merit. Anumula Revanth Reddy of the Congress tops the list with 89 criminal cases, followed by BJP’s T. Raja Singh with 87 cases. The Telangana Election Watch report reveals that 15 per cent of candidates have serious criminal cases, including murder and crimes against women. Six out of seven assembly constituencies in the Hyderabad Lok Sabha constituency are ‘red alert,’ with a concerning pattern across major parties. In financial transparency, one-fourth of candidates declared assets exceeding 1 crore, with an average asset value of 4.71 crore. The Carnegie Endowment for International Peace highlighted concerns about Indian parties relying on wealthy candidates, limiting representation, effectiveness, and potentially increasing corruption due to self-financed campaigns.
The Hindu’s report, “Telangana Assembly election results 2023 | Congress breaks Bharat Rashtra Samithi’s decade-long hold over Telangana with big wins,” published on December 3, 2023, reveals that the Congress has emerged victorious in the Telangana Assembly Elections, securing 64 seats on its own and forming the government for the first time since the formation of the state. The Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) led by K. Chandrashekhar Rao ended up with 39 seats. Chief Minister KCR lost in Kamareddy to the BJP candidate Venkatramana Reddy, while TPCC president Revanth Reddy won comfortably in Gajwel. The counting day saw significant defeats for six BRS ministers and BJP MPs Bandi Sanjay and Dharmapuri Arvind. Congress dominated in South Telangana districts and made considerable inroads in North Telangana. The BJP made surprise gains in Adilabad and Nizamabad districts. The saving grace for the BRS was Hyderabad, where it won 7 out of 15 seats. The Congress campaign focused on criticising KCR’s family rule, corruption charges, and unemployment, while its promises and financial support to farmers resonated with rural voters.
The Economic Times’ article, “TRS reignites Telangana Fire, wins 88 seats” explains that Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS), led by K. Chandrashekar Rao, has won a landslide victory in the Telangana Assembly Elections, securing 87 out of 119 seats. The early elections were called about nine months before completing the five-year tenure, with TRS emphasising its people-centric schemes and regional sentiments. The Congress, in a pre-poll alliance with Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and others, secured 19 seats, down from 21 in 2014, while TDP won two seats compared to 15 last time. BJP, despite significant efforts and high-profile campaigning, managed only one seat, down from five in 2014. AIMIM, led by Asaduddin Owaisi, retained its seven seats.
The Indian Express’ article, “What Congress got right in its sole spark, Telangana,” written by Manoj C.G., published on December 3, 2023, analyses the political landscape in Telangana ahead of the state Assembly elections. It delves into the challenges, strategies, and dynamics of key political parties, including the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), Congress, BJP, and AIMIM. The Congress is highlighted as a resurgent force, buoyed by success in Karnataka, while the BRS faces challenges and attempts to counteract dissent. The BJP’s initial momentum is noted to be waning, and the AIMIM is positioned as a potential kingmaker in influencing election results. The article emphasises the competitive narrative-setting between the Congress and BRS, illustrating their contrasting moves and strategies in the run-up to the elections.
Times of India’s article, “Telangana election results: What went wrong for K. Chandrasekhar Rao’s BRS,” published by December 3, 2023, discusses the end of K. Chandrasekhar Rao’s over 9-year rule in Telangana, highlighting the Congress’s victory in the state Assembly elections. It attributes the Bharat Rashtra Samithi’s (BRS) defeat to factors such as KCR’s ambition to go national, changing the party’s name, and later distancing from opposition blocs. Anti-incumbency played a role, with dissatisfaction against the party, chief minister, and sitting MLAs. The Congress capitalised on graft allegations and accusations of family rule during the campaign, projecting the BRS and AIMIM as the BJP’s B-team. The State Congress chief dedicated the victory to Telangana martyrs and emphasised fulfilling people’s aspirations. The article concludes by noting that it is a people’s mandate for change, defeating KCR, without the need for further postmortem analysis.
The Hindu’s report, “Congress announces Revanth Reddy as CM of Telangana,” published on December 5, 2023, reveals that the Congress central leadership has named A. Revanth Reddy as its choice for Chief Minister of Telangana. Reddy, the Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee president, will be the first Congress Chief Minister of the state. The decision was based on feedback from party observers, including Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who attended the Telangana CLP meeting. Reddy, described as a dynamic leader, campaigned extensively in the elections. The new government’s priority will be to fulfil the aspirations and guarantees made to the people of Telangana. The party will now focus on constituting the new Council of Ministers.
Mizoram
The Times of India’s report, “Mizoram Assembly Elections 2023” mentions that the upcoming Mizoram Assembly elections are set to witness a three-cornered battle among the ruling Mizo National Front (MNF), Indian National Congress, and Zoram Peoples’ Movement. The state has traditionally been governed by either the MNF or the Congress since it gained separate statehood in 1987. However, the emergence of the Zoram People’s Movement poses a challenge to this binary equation. The MNF, led by Zoramthanga, is seeking a second consecutive term, having ruled for three terms since the state’s establishment. The Congress, under new president Lalsawta, aims to rejuvenate the party by incorporating young leaders. The Zoram People’s Movement, a rising political force, upset calculations in a recent civic body election. In the 2018 assembly polls, the MNF won 26 seats, Congress secured five, and the BJP got one out of 40 seats.
Frontline’s article, “ZPM emerges as main challenger to ruling MNF in Mizoram election,” written by Suwa Lal Jangu, published on October 5, 2023, discusses the electoral politics in Mizoram, highlighting the traditional binary model where voters typically change the government every two terms. Since gaining statehood in 1987, the political landscape has been dominated by a two-party system, with the Congress and the Mizo National Front (MNF) as the primary players. However, in the upcoming 2023 Assembly election, the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) has replaced the Congress as the principal opposition, while the MNF is seeking a second term. Despite the shift, the binary political model, with a two-party system, is expected to remain influential in Mizoram.
Deccan Herald’s article, “Mizoram Assembly elections 2023: Party with most number of candidates having criminal records,” written by Mansi Singh, published on November 1, 2023, reveals that the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) and Mizoram Election Watch conducted an analysis of criminal history declarations by candidates in the upcoming 2023 Mizoram Assembly elections. Out of the 174 candidates assessed, 4 per cent declared criminal cases, with 4 per cent of them having serious criminal cases. This is an increase from the 2018 elections when only 2 per cent of candidates declared serious criminal offences. Among national parties, 3 per cent of the 67 candidates declared criminal cases, while state parties had 3 per cent out of 40 candidates with criminal cases. The Mizo National Front (MNF) had 3 per cent of candidates with criminal cases, and the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) had 10 per cent. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had 9 per cent of candidates declaring criminal cases. Notably, none of the candidates from other parties declared any criminal or serious criminal cases.
Times of India’s report, “Mizoram Election Results 2023” reveals that the Mizoram assembly elections held on November 7 saw a peaceful turnout, with 80.66 per cent of the 8.57 lakh electors casting their votes. A total of 174 candidates, including 18 women, contested in all 40 seats. The ruling Mizo National Front (MNF), main opposition Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM), and the Congress fielded candidates in all seats. The BJP contested 23 constituencies, and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) nominated candidates in four segments. Vote counting is scheduled for December 4. In the 2018 polls, the overall voter turnout was 81.61 per cent. The results will determine the composition of the 40-member Mizoram Legislative Assembly.
Indian Express’ article, “Lalduhoma & ZPM: behind the remarkable result in Mizoram assembly elections,” written by Sukrita Baruah, published on December 5, 2023, mentions that the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) has emerged victorious in the Mizoram Assembly election, defeating the ruling Mizo National Front (MNF). Formed in 2017 as a coalition of regional parties and civil society groups, the ZPM focused on addressing corruption in governance and providing an alternative to the long-standing dominance of the MNF and Congress. Recognised as a political party in 2019, the ZPM gained momentum with key wins, including the 2021 Serchhip by-election and victories in municipal and local council elections. Led by former IPS officer Lalduhoma, the ZPM positioned itself as a corruption-free alternative, breaking the historical cycle of power between the MNF and Congress in Mizoram. The party promised administrative, land, and economic reforms and highlighted its commitment to Mizo nationalism. This marks the first time a party other than the MNF or Congress will form the government in Mizoram.
The Hindu’s article, “Mizoram has more than one woman MLA for the first time,” written by Rahul Karmarkar, published on December 5, 2023, explains that in a historic mandate, the Mizoram Assembly election results saw the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) securing victory, marking the first time a party other than the Mizo National Front (MNF) and the Congress has come to power in almost 40 years. Additionally, the election saw the election of more than one woman to the 40-member Assembly for the first time. The ZPM, formed in 2017 as a coalition of regional parties and civil society groups, presented itself as a corruption-free alternative and broke the historical power cycle between the MNF and Congress. The victory of women candidates, including Baryl Vanneihsangi and Lalrinpuii of the ZPM, reflects a significant moment for gender representation in Mizoram’s political landscape. The BJP doubled its seat count but is unlikely to become a major force in the Christian-majority state.
The Hindu’s article, “Zoram People’s Movement leader Lalduhoma sworn in as Mizoram CM,” published on December 8, 2023, reveals that the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) leader Lalduhoma has been sworn in as the Chief Minister of Mizoram. The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Raj Bhavan, and Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati administered the oath of office. Lalduhoma’s party, ZPM, secured victory in the Assembly elections with 27 seats, an increase from 8 seats in the 2018 polls. The ceremony was attended by outgoing Chief Minister Zoramthanga and other political leaders.
© Spectrum Books Pvt. Ltd.