Rajya Sabha race narrows to two as Mizoram parties prepare for June 18 vote

Aizawl, June 9 -- The contest for Mizoram's lone seat in the Rajya Sabha has been set fora direct showdown between the ruling Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) and the oppositionMizo National Front (MNF) after scrutiny of nomination papers on Tuesday cleared both candidates to remain in the race.

Officials at the Mizoram Legislative Assembly Secretariat confirmed that the nomination documents submitted by the two contenders were found valid during the scrutiny process,paving the way for polling scheduled on June 18.

Representing the ruling ZPM is K. Laltluangkima, 63, a senior party leader who currently servesas the spokesperson of the governing party.

Challenging him is Zothansangi Hmar, 36, an advocate and member of the MNF Legal Board,who...