Mizoram's Forest Conservation Act sparks outrage: MNF and Zoro semand immediate repeal

Aizawl: In a significant political development, Mizo National Front (MNF) and Zo Reunification Organisation (Zoro) have vehemently opposed the Mizoram legislative assembly's recent endorsement of the Forest Conservation (Amendment) Act 2023.

The opposition parties have called for an urgent special session to rescind the resolution, which they argue is detrimental to the state's interests.MNF, in a statement following a joint meeting of its National Core Committee, Political Affairs Committee, and Legislature Party, submitted a formal protest to speaker Lalbiakzama. The party contends that the resolution, adopted during the monsoon session on Aug 27, should not be forwarded to the Lok Sabha secretariat, as it contradicts the will of the Mizoram people.MNF has consistently opposed the FCAA 2023, mobilizing public opinion and engaging with political parties, civil societies, and NGOs. The party's previous government had also made several representations to the central government against the amendment.Zoro vice-president L Ramdinliana Renthlei echoed MNF’s sentiments, demanding the resolution's withdrawal and threatening state-wide agitation if the government fails to act.

Renthlei argued that the FCAA 2023 violates constitutional provisions and international declarations on indigenous rights.The controversy has been further fueled by the apparent shift in stance by chief minister Lalduhoma, who, as opposition leader, had warned against the amendment's potential for forced assimilation. However, as chief minister, he defended the resolution, citing constitutional constraints.The situation has sparked widespread debate, with contradictory statements from the chief minister circulating on social media, adding to the political tension in Mizoram.