Aizawl: Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga said Thursday that the state has emerged as an island of peace amidst the sea of turmoil.
Speaking at the Mizo Students’ Union general conference in Thenzawl town, the former-rebel-leader-turned-politician proudly called Mizoram one of the most peaceful states in the world, one that offers a safe and peaceful refuge to those who have fled their homes, in Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Manipur, owing to political turmoil.
While he was referring to the condition of Rohingyas in Myanmar, neighbouring Manipur has also been on the boil since May, owing to ethnic violence between the state’s Kuki and Meitei communities.
Zoramthanga recalled his own experiences during his rebel days when he said he and several leaders of the then-outlawed Mizo National Front (MNF), sought refuge in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh).
“I have experienced the relief of having a sound sleep even for one night in the then East Pakistan after fleeing political disturbances in Mizoram. I can sense the joy of our brethren from Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Manipur as they find solace in Mizoram, where they can sleep soundly and carry on with their daily lives without fear,” said CM.
It was the signing of the Peace Accord in Mizoram — the Memorandum of Settlement in 1986 — which ended two decades of strife and insurgency in Mizoram, turning into one of the Indian states a year later. After coming overground in 1986, the MNF was converted into a political party and is now a recognised state party.
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‘Cherish and value peace’
Highlighting that Mizoram is now one of the most peaceful states in the world — a condition achieved after enduring relentless disturbances, he said — the CM said the people of the state should always cherish and value this peace.
“Our insurgency-riddled neighbours often turned to Mizoram in search of lasting peace, seeking Aizawl’s assistance in mediating peace between their governments and insurgent groups,” Zoramthanga, who had acted as mediator between insurgent groups and governments in the past, said.
He praised the efforts of the state government, the people, and various organisations in Mizoram in supporting ethnic communities and also acknowledged the role of Mizo students in achieving this.
“We shall never forget the courageous efforts of Mizo student organisations during the tumultuous Mizoram insurgency period. Let us follow in the footsteps of those pioneers who fearlessly defended our rights. It is time to recommit ourselves to this land and its people.”
The event also saw the state’s Ladies Organisation honouring the chief minister by presenting him with a citation for providing shelter to Myanmar refugees.
(Edited by Poulomi Banerjee)