MNF calls off 10-hr strike, cites strong public support

Aizawl:Mizo National Front (MNF) called off its 10-hour shutdown at 1pm on Wednesday, citing overwhelming public support. The shutdown, which began at 6am, was a protest against the Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act, 2023 (FCAA, 2023), recently adopted by the state legislature.Aizawl, the state capital, resembled a ghost town as shops, businesses, and government offices, including banks and educational institutions, remained closed. The streets were devoid of vehicles and pedestrians, except for those exempted from the shutdown.Former minister and MNF treasurer Lalruatkima expressed gratitude to the people of Mizoram for their "wholehearted cooperation and peaceful participation" in the statewide bandh.

"By extending full cooperation to the bandh, the people of Mizoram have reaffirmed their commitment to uphold and protect the unique constitutional safeguard that forms the cornerstone of Mizoram’s identity, autonomy, and self-governance," he stated.The protest was a response to Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) govt's adoption of the FCAA, 2023, through a resolution in the Mizoram assembly on Aug 27. MNF emphasized the importance of Article 371(G) of the Indian Constitution, which protects Mizoram’s land, forests, and customs from any Parliamentary Act unless approved by the assembly.

“Today’s peaceful and united response has sent a strong message to all concerned authorities that the people of Mizoram will stand together to defend their constitutional rights and ancestral lands from any legislation that jeopardizes their autonomy or ecological integrity," Lalruatkima added.The shutdown was enforced across all 10 district headquarters and major towns, with MNF leaders declaring it a complete success, even in rural areas.