Mizoram Assembly elections LIVE: Voting ended in Mizoram on Tuesday with people casting their ballot to elect their representatives for 40 seats in the state assembly. Around 69 per cent voters had exercised their franchise by 3 pm in the northeastern state.The polling to elect a new assembly started at 7 am and concluded at 4 pm, officials said.
According to poll data, Tuichang seat reported a voter turnout of 77.12 per cent, Tuikum 81.33 per cent, East TuiPui 75.12 per cent, and Lawngtlai West 76.44 per cent.Over 857,000 voters, including 439,000 women, are eligible to exercise their franchise to decide the electoral fate of 174 candidates.
The ruling Mizo National Front (MNF), main opposition Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) and Congress have fielded candidates in all the seats. The BJP is contesting in 23 constituencies, while the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has nominated candidates in four assembly segments. Besides, there are 27 independentcandidates.
Security was strengthened across Mizoram and at the international borders in the state ahead of polling for the assembly elections. Extensive security arrangements have been made and the state's borders have been sealed in view of the polling, Inspector-General of Police (Headquarters) Lalbiakthanga Khiangte said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon the people of Mizoram, especially the young and first-time voters to exercise their franchise as Mizoram goes to vote.
"I call upon the people of Mizoram to vote in record numbers. I particularly urge the young and first time voters to exercise their franchise and strengthen the festival of democracy," the Prime Minister said in a post on 'X'.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi urged the people of Mizoram to vote for his party and said it was his guarantee that their culture, language and traditions will be protected.
 "Mizoram polls LIVE: Voting concludes, sealing of EVMs and VVPATs begins")
