Mizoram celebrates 39 yrs of peace accord
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At an event in Saitual, opposition
(MNF) president and former chief minister Zoramthanga described Article 371G, introduced through the 53rd Constitutional Amendment, as one of the most significant gains of the accord. The provision protects Mizo customary law, land ownership, and religious practices from unilateral parliamentary legislation, unless approved by the Mizoram Assembly.
Zoramthanga said the accord was not simply a bilateral agreement between the MNF and the Centre, but a tripartite understanding that included the people of Mizoram.
He said then chief secretary Lalkhama signed the accord on behalf of the state, including those not involved in the armed struggle, while MNF leader Laldenga represented the underground movement.
"It was not an accord of the weak. Both sides were at their strongest. The moment of peace came when God — the 'Wonderful Counsellor' — deemed it ripe," he said, referencing the "Book of Isaiah".
He warned that the protections granted under Article 371G must not be taken for granted.
"While Nagaland received similar safeguards in 1962, ours was earned through struggle. If anyone tries to take it away, we will demand back our arms and the blood with which we earned it," he added.
In Aizawl, the Mizo National Youth Front (MNYF) marked the anniversary by unveiling a hoarding spotlighting Article 371G in front of the Mizo Hnam Run (MNF party office). The hoarding was inaugurated by Lalkhama, one of the three signatories of the Peace Accord.
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Speaking at the occasion, Lalkhama paid tribute to the MNF cadres and martyrs, saying their sacrifices laid the foundation for peace and constitutional safeguards. "They are the real heroes. The protections under Article 371G must be made more widely known," he said, commending MNYF for its initiative.
MNYF president Robert Romawia Royte also addressed the gathering, noting that the peace accord directly led to the 53rd Constitutional Amendment. "This gives the Mizoram assembly the power to accept or reject any central law relating to our religion, customs, or land. Only Mizoram and Nagaland enjoy this privilege," he said.
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