The unprecedented success of an underdog, the Zoram People’s Movement of Mizoram (ZPM), which was largely underestimated by the Congress, has eventually led to the downfall of the last bastion of the Indian National Congress in the northeast, paving way for the Zoramthanga-led Mizo National Front (MNF) party to grab power.

Mizoram PCC president Lal Thanhawla had to concede defeat and has tendered his resignation to Governor Kummanam Rajasekharan and MNF president Zoramthanga has staked claims to form the new government.

The ZPM, not even a political party yet but a conglomerate of eight lesser known parties of Mizoram, has bagged eight seats with Lalduhoma, their chief ministerial candidate, bagging two seats including Serchhip where he defeated Lal Thanhawla.

“We underestimated the ZPM, which came as a severe blow to us. Our vote share in the entire state is still very healthy. The Congress will come back in the next Lok Sabha election,” Lal Thanhawla said.

The astonishing success of the ZPM has also surprised political analysts.

“I personally believe that they were a force to be reckoned with, but I did not anticipate these many seats. They not only won eight seats, but also attracted swing voters who have helped the Congress in the past two state elections. This made MNF’s task easier,” J Malsawmzuala, a local political commentator said.