Mizoram churches rejoice as EC defers vote counting

AIZAWL: Churches in Aizawl saw fervent prayers and spiritual gatherings as the EC yielded to Mizoram's plea to defer vote counting to Monday, respecting the significance of Sunday as a holy day for the Christian-majority state. The first Sunday of December is celebrated as Bible Sunday.

Political party offices remained closed throughout the day, while church premises buzzed with activity, welcoming politicians and community members for special prayers. CM Zoramthanga devoted nearly one-and-a-half hours to prayers at Zarkawt Presbyterian Church, a mere 100 metres from his official residence. This church is known for drawing the attention of every CM as all of them were its members, at least during their tenure.

Locals said Mizoram's Christian community gained strength by "keeping politics away" on Bible Sunday, an occasion when the importance of Bible lessons and verses is emphasised.

"From today, the pre-Christmas celebrations begin in our church. We are happy that the counting of votes did not coincide with this important day. The church is not directly involved in electoral politics, but our members, as part of Mizoram People's Forum, are there to neutralise political issues if they disrupt social harmony," said Dr Jennifer, who oversees children's Sunday school in the church.