ECI censures Mizoram CM Lalduhoma for violating Model Code of Conduct

Guwahati: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has formally censured Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma for breaching the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) during his recent election campaign.

The Commission also instructed all Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) star campaigners to strictly adhere to election guidelines and exercise caution in public statements.

The ECI found that on October 20, 2025, during a visit to Reiek, Lalduhoma announced several development projects, including a new water supply scheme drawing water from the Tlawng River to serve 14 localities in Aizawl.

The Commission ruled that making such announcements during the MCC period violated Part IV, Paragraph (vi) of the election code, which prohibits politicians from promising or announcing new schemes that could influence voters.

After reviewing Lalduhoma’s explanation, the ECI concluded that it failed to justify the remarks and confirmed that they compromised the neutrality expected of public officials during elections.

The District Election Officer of Mamit has been directed to formally notify the ZPM about the violation. Additionally, the ECI ordered the ZPM President to ensure that all party campaigners comply with MCC regulations in future rallies and public events.

The Commission also reminded all ministers and government officials across Mizoram to maintain political impartiality and protect the integrity of the election process. It specifically cautioned ZPM star campaigners against making promises or statements that could sway voters or disrupt communal harmony.

The censure followed a complaint submitted on October 24 by advocate Zothansangi Hmar, a member of the MNF Legal Board, who alleged that Lalduhoma’s statements contravened the MCC.