mizoram-set-to-sign-peace-deal-with-faction-of-hmar-militants-cm

Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Friday announced that his government is close to finalising a peace agreement with a faction of the Hmar militant group, marking a significant step toward restoring stability in Hmar-inhabited regions of the state.

 

Speaking at the general assembly of the Hmar Students’ Association (HSA) and the Sikpui Ruoi festival in Kolasib district, Lalduhoma said discussions are progressing with the Lalhmingthanga Sanate-led faction of the Hmar People’s Convention (Democratic) — or HPC(D).

 

“We are hopeful that we can soon sign an agreement to restore peace in Mizoram, particularly in Hmar-dominated areas,” the Chief Minister said.

 

The HPC(D) emerged following a split in the original Hmar People’s Convention (HPC), which long demanded a Sixth Schedule autonomous district council by carving out Hmar-majority villages in northeastern Mizoram near the Manipur border.

 

While a faction led by H Zosangabera signed a peace accord in April 2018—leading to the creation of the Sinlung Hills Council (SHC)—the Sanate faction, based mainly in Assam’s Cachar district, has remained outside the peace process. Police have linked the group to several cases of extortion and other crimes in Mizoram.

 

 

Lalduhoma urged the Hmar community—describing them as “one of the major tribes within the Mizo fold”—to continue strengthening unity among the state’s diverse groups.

He praised the HSA as one of the oldest student organisations among the Mizo tribes, acknowledging its contributions to education, cultural preservation, and social development.

 

Reiterating his administration’s commitment to rural development, the Chief Minister said the procurement of key cash crops would continue under the state’s flagship ‘Bana Kaih’ scheme.

 

He added that the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) government had filled numerous vacant posts and created new employment opportunities over the past two years.

 

Lalduhoma was accompanied at the event by Assembly Speaker Lalbiakzama and Revenue Minister B Lalchhanzova, underscoring the significance the government attaches to engaging with Hmar civil society.