Mizoram has signed a peace accord with a faction of the Hmar People’s Convention (Democratic), marking the end of decades-long insurgency linked to the Hmar community in the state.
The Memorandum of Settlement (MoS) signed on Tuesday between the state government and the Hmar People's Convention (Democratic) faction led by Lalhmingthanga Sanate at Sakawrda, headquarters of the Sinlung Hills Council (SHC).
The agreement was signed by Mizoram Home Secretary David Lalithantluanga in the presence of senior officials and community leaders, including Lalmuanpuia Punte.
Under the pact, 43 cadres of the Sanate-led faction will lay down arms and join the mainstream. A “homecoming” ceremony is scheduled for April 30 at the Central Training Institute in Sesawng, near Aizawl.
The accord lays out a development roadmap for the Hmar-dominated SHC region in northern and northeastern Mizoram, including enhanced budgetary allocation, infrastructure upgrades, improved connectivity and a special development package.
It also grants official recognition to Sikpui Ruoi, the largest Hmar festival observed annually on December 5, marking a key cultural demand of the community.
Also read: Mizoram village receives national ‘Clean & Green Panchayat’ award
Calling the agreement a “milestone”, Punte said it signals the end of ethnic insurgency in Mizoram and expressed hope that development-led initiatives would ensure lasting peace.
Lalithantluanga noted that earlier accords had been signed with Hmar militant groups in 1994 and 2018, with the latest agreement completing the peace process.
Sanate said that while the pact may not meet all initial demands, it represents a step towards reconciliation after more than three decades of militancy.
The HPC(D) had sought administrative reforms for the SHC, including greater autonomy, increased funding, infrastructure development and recognition of key cultural observances.
The Sanate-led faction was the last active among three Hmar insurgent groups operating since the mid-1990s, and the agreement is seen as closing the final chapter of militancy in the state.
Follow us
