Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga has declared his decision not to share the campaign stage with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the upcoming assembly elections. This move is attributed to concerns related to church burning incidents in BJP-ruled Manipur, which have generated significant disapproval among the predominantly Christian population of Mizoram.
In an interview with BBC News, Chief Minister Zoramthanga expressed his reservations, emphasizing the Christian identity of the people of Mizoram and their strong opposition to the church burnings in Manipur. He stated, “The people of Mizoram are all Christians. When the people of Manipur (Meities) burned hundreds of churches in Manipur, they were (Mizos) totally against that kind of idea. To have sympathy with the BJP at this time will be a big minus point for my party.”
He further recommended that it would be preferable for Prime Minister Modi to campaign separately, allowing each to address the public independently. Zoramthanga’s Mizo National Front (MNF) is part of the BJP-led North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA) and an ally of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) at the central level. However, the party does not collaborate with the BJP in Mizoram.
Zoramthanga clarified that the MNF aligned with the NDA and NEDA because it vehemently opposes the Congress party and prefers not to participate in any alliance led by it.
Discussing the provision of shelter to individuals from Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Manipur, the Chief Minister highlighted that the Mizoram government follows the central government’s approach. He underscored that the state government extends humanitarian assistance, offering food and shelter, without providing weapons to refugees from Myanmar.
Over 40,000 individuals from Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Manipur have sought refuge in Mizoram. Zoramthanga asserted that it is the responsibility of the central government to restore peace in Manipur, facilitating the return of people to their native state.
Mizoram is set to hold assembly elections for its 40-member legislative assembly on November 7, with vote counting scheduled for December 3. This political development highlights the complex dynamics and concerns in the region as the election season unfolds.
Sources By Agencies
