The day Mizoram declared independence from India, 56 years ago

Aizawl: The momentous period and memories of the declaration of Mizoram’s independence from the Indian union 56 years ago did not die down and are still fresh among the Mizos even as the hilly northeastern state celebrated the 35th anniversary of its statehood. The day, which falls on March 1, is commemorated as ‘Mizo National Day’ in Mizoram. 

On March 1, 1966, just a few minutes past midnight of 28 February, the erstwhile underground Mizo National Front (MNF) led by legendary Laldenga declared independence against India, after launching coordinated attacks on security forces and installations in different parts of the Mizo district (now Mizoram) in undivided Assam, which dragged the region into a 20-year-long armed struggle for sovereignty.

To cherish the historic moment, the ruling MNF and a few enthusiast groups celebrated the 56th anniversary of the declaration of Mizoram’s independence or Mizo National Day in different parts of the state on Monday.