Mizoram CM Exonerates Assam Officials in Border Encroachment Incident
In a significant development, Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma addressed the state assembly on Thursday, providing clarity on a recent border encroachment issue that had sparked tensions between Mizoram and Assam. The CM explicitly stated that officials from Assam's police and forest departments were not involved in the encroachment activities within Saipum village, where forest land was cleared for jhum cultivation.
Details of the Encroachment
According to Chief Minister Lalduhoma, the encroachment was carried out by members of the Bru community from Bandarkhal village, located in Assam's Cachar district. The information was received on Wednesday and subsequently verified through official channels. The CM quoted the headman of Bandarkhal village, who reported that approximately 30 Bru families from the village were responsible for clearing the forest on Saipum village land. The clearing activities reportedly began in late January and early February of this year.
Official Response and Measures
Lalduhoma emphasized that Bandarkhal village authorities have been instructed to refrain from taking any further action to prevent an escalation of tensions. Additionally, the Superintendent of Police (SP) of Cachar district has been informed about the incident and urged to take appropriate steps to mitigate further conflict. The CM noted that the SP has "promised to take immediate action" to address the situation.
Report Submission and Background
The report on the encroachment was submitted by Kolasib Deputy Commissioner Robert C Lalhmangaiha and other officials, including SP Lalrinpuia Varte. The cleared land is situated near an abandoned Mizoram Police camp, which was vacated due to inaccessibility. This unattended area allowed individuals from Assam to clear the forest, as highlighted by the Chief Minister.
Local Concerns and Appeals
Leaders of Saipum village have appealed to the state government to resolve the matter promptly, underscoring the urgency of addressing border issues to maintain peace and stability in the region. The incident highlights ongoing challenges in inter-state border management and the need for coordinated efforts to prevent such encroachments in the future.
