‘Mizo Accord is a time-tested accord that ensures enduring peace’

Aizawl: Mizoram chief minister and Mizo National Front (MNF) president Zoramthanga on Friday said that the Mizo Peace Accord of 1986 was one of the most lasting accords in the country that stood the test of time and ensured enduring peace in the state.

Addressing a function to celebrate the anniversary of signing of the historic Mizo Peace Accord, Zoramthanga said, “The country as well as the world has not only thanked us, but was even jealous of us because of the peace accord that ensured lasting peace.”

He said that the sense of valuing the Mizo Peace Accord has been growing increasingly among the younger generations despite some vested interests, who under- rated the accord. “The signing of the Mizo Accord was one of the most memorable moments for the Mizo people and was one of the greatest things ever achieved by the people,” he said.

The peace accord should not be under-valued as it was acceptable for both India and the Mizo people, he said, adding that it was the most valuable peace accord given by the God.

The former rebel leader also said that civil societies, student bodies, churches and politicians equally contributed to the signing of the peace accord. He wished that the celebration of the anniversary of the peace accord brings unity and developments in the state.

Known as “Remna Ni” in local parlance, the 33rd anniversary of the signing of the historic ‘Mizo peace accord’ between the Central government and the erstwhile underground outfit, MNF, was celebrated at Lammual (Assam Rifles ground) in Aizawl.

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The event is being organised by the Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP).

MZP president L Ramdinliana Renthlei, who spoke on the occasion, said the event is being organised so that the young generations value the peace accord. He said that the Mizo Peace Accord was valuable as it was achieved by the Mizo heroes after losing many lives.

Renthlei also urged politicians not to use the peace accord for political vendetta. He further said that the student body would make massive effort to protect the rights of the Mizos and not allow the non-indigenous people to infringe on the rights of the indigenous people.

Three church leaders — Rev Dr Zairema, Rev Dr HS Luaia, Rev Dr Lalngurauva Ralte and a politician Lalduhoma, the sitting legislator of Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM), were honoured for their outstanding contribution towards signing the peace accord.

The event was attended by leaders of civil societies and representatives of different political parties. During the celebration, 40 cultural troupes from 21 different schools performed “Cheraw” or bamboo dance.

Although the Mizo Peace Accord was signed on June 30, 1986, it was celebrated on Friday as the actual day falls on Sunday this year.

The peace accord ended two decades of insurgency and unrest in the state. The signatories were MNF leader Laldenga, home secretary RD Pradhan and Mizoram chief secretary Lalkhama.

Mizoram became the 23rd state of India on February 20, 1987.