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The Mizoram Assembly election, recently concluded, witnessed several historic moments, including the victory of the youngest woman MLA in the state. Baryl Vanneihsangi, a 32-year-old former TV presenter, emerged victorious in the Aizawl South-III constituency, securing a win by 1,414 votes.
Baryl Vanneihsangi, a former radio jockey (RJ), gained prominence as the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) leader. In the recent Mizoram Assembly election, she secured victory in the Aizawl South-III constituency by 1,414 votes, triumphing over F Lalnunmawia of the outgoing Mizo National Front (MNF). Vanneihsangi garnered 9,370 votes, while her closest competitor from the MNF received 7,956 votes. Congress candidate Rosiamngheta secured the third position with 2,066 votes. Vanneihsangi’s win highlights her popularity and success in transitioning from a former RJ to a key political figure in Mizoram.
Representing the newly-established Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM), Vanneihsangi played a pivotal role in the party’s success, as the ZPM captured 27 out of the total 40 seats, defeating the incumbent Mizo National Front (MNF). This victory marks a significant shift in the political landscape of Mizoram.
In addition to Vanneihsangi, other notable women MLAs elected to the Mizoram Assembly include Lalrinpuii of the ZPM and Prova Chakma of the MNF. Lalrinpuii emerged victorious in Lunglei East, defeating the Congress candidate Joseph Lalhimpuia by 1,646 votes. MNF’s Prova Chakma secured the West Tuipui seat, overcoming Congress’ Nihar Kanti Chakma by 711 votes.
This election showcased a transformative moment for Mizoram, where the ZPM’s success, led by dynamic women candidates, marked a departure from historical norms. Over the years, Mizoram had elected only a few women MLAs, with Vanneihsangi’s victory signaling a positive shift. The active participation of women in the electoral process is a notable advancement for the state, highlighting the changing dynamics in Mizoram’s political landscape.
