Electoral Politics and Assembly Elections in Arunachal Pradesh: Examining Electoral Trends of Cross-District Candidature in Mixed-Population Constituencies

Abstract

Lokpa Tamang and Tabang Mibang

This study explores the dynamics of cross-district candidature in the mixed-population constituencies of Namsai, Lekang, and Bordumsa Diyun in Arunachal Pradesh. It aims to identify and analyze the motivations driving candidates from other districts to contest elections in these constituencies, assess the socio-economic and political impacts of such candidacies, and investigate local voter perceptions and voting behavior. Utilizing a combination of historical and empirical approaches, the study employs both qualitative and quantitative methods. The trend of cross-district candidature began in 2014 when Nikh Kamin, a PPA party candidate, contested and won the assembly election from Bordumsa Diyun (Gen) constituency. Data was collected from both primary and secondary sources. Primary data was gathered using purposive sampling to select the assembly constituencies and polling stations, and simple random sampling to select the respondents. A total of 150 respondents were selected from three assembly constituencies using questionnaires and scheduled interviews as tools of data collection. Secondary sources such as books, articles, newspapers, and election statistics were also utilized. The findings reveal that factors such as the presence of a large non-APST population, a leadership vacuum, the desire to address specific local issues, and political opportunities are primary motivations for candidates from other districts. Non-APST voters generally perceive these candidacies as beneficial for socio-economic development. However, apex tribal organizations and some indigenous populations in these constituencies largely oppose this trend, viewing it as a threat to the political representation of minor tribes.

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