Fractured Coalition: Mizoram's LADC Stalemate

Six days after the Lai Autonomous District Council polls in Mizoram, no party has managed to form a coalition in the council. The main contenders, Mizo National Front (MNF), Congress, and Zoram People's Movement (ZPM), are in talks. Allegations of horse-trading have marred MNF's relations with Congress.

Six days after the Lai Autonomous District Council (LADC) elections resulted in a fractured mandate, Mizoram remains without a coalition to run its 25-member governing body.

The Mizo National Front (MNF) emerged as the single largest party with eight seats, followed closely by Congress with seven. The Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) secured six seats and the BJP two seats.

Negoatiations between the MNF, Congress, and ZPM have hit a roadblock as the Congress accuses MNF of reneging on a pre-poll agreement by allegedly attempting to horse-trade council members.

(With inputs from agencies.)