#IndiaDecidesOnDec11: MNF establish early lead; CM Thanhawla loses both seats
In Mizoram, early trends indicate that the Mizo National Front (MNF) is surging ahead of the Congress. At the time of writing, the MNF was reportedly leading in 28 seats, as opposed to the Congress leading in seven seats. Notably, Congress leader and Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla has lost both seats he contested - South Champhai and Serchhip. Here's more.
Congress veteran Thanhawla bows down after years in power
For those unaware, Thanhawla had been in power in Mizoram for a total of 10 years. The Congress veteran is also credited with taking the Congress to a resounding victory in the 2013 Mizoram Assembly Elections, which saw the grand old party secure 34 seats in the 40 member assembly. Interestingly, Thanhawla had begun his political career with the MNF, before joining Congress.
Meanwhile, here are the official ECI trends
Exit polls had predicted a hung assembly in Mizoram
Exit polls had earlier predicted that Mizoram could be headed for a hung assembly - although the MNF is likely to trump the Congress in the 40-seat assembly, exit polls had indicated that MNF could fall short of the 21-seat majority mark. Interestingly, since Mizoram was formed in 1987, no party has come into power for a third consecutive term.
