Aizawl: Mizoram today observed Remna Ni, Peace Accord Day, at the historic Lammual Ground in Aizawl, with Chief Minister Lalduhoma delivering a speech that blended a strong reaffirmation of the state’s peaceful legacy with a candid warning about recent concerns surrounding refugee-linked crimes.
Organised by the Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP) General Headquarters, the commemoration marked the anniversary of the signing of the Mizoram Peace Accord in 1986—a landmark agreement that ended two decades of insurgency and set Mizoram on a path of peace and development.
The Chief Minister, joined by his wife Liansailovi, hoisted the Remna Ni flag to open the ceremony, followed by a solemn performance by the 1st Battalion MAP Brass Band.
In his keynote address, Lalduhoma extended heartfelt greetings to Zo people across the globe and praised the MZP for organising the event at such a meaningful venue. He stated that peace is the foundation of development, stability, and progress, and affirmed that his government will leave no stone unturned in preserving and promoting peace in the state.
Highlighting upcoming infrastructure plans, the Chief Minister said Mizoram is entering a phase of major development, particularly in connecting the state’s southern and northern regions. He stressed that such development must also foster better communication and deeper harmony among people of different communities and faiths.
Lalduhoma emphasized that Mizo nationalism is not about hostility or exclusion, but about unity, compassion, and shared growth. He said true nationalism uplifts others and builds togetherness, and called for peaceful coexistence regardless of differences.
In a pointed section of his address, the Chief Minister referred to a recent statement by the Union Home Minister, who revealed that nearly 50 percent of crimes in Mizoram were committed by refugees. He said it is regrettable that the actions of a few miscreants tarnish the image of many law-abiding individuals, and appealed to all refugee communities to respect the laws of the land.
He urged a balanced approach: while extending compassion, the state must also protect its hard-won peace. “Let peace and harmony prevail in our society and in our neighbourhoods,” he concluded. “Let us rekindle the spirit of communal harmony handed down to us by our ancestors.”
The event was chaired by MZP Vice President C. Lalremruata, with opening prayers by Rev. Dr. Lalhmangaiha, General Secretary of the Council of Churches of Mizoram (CCM). A report was presented by Chinkhanmanga Thomte, MZP General Secretary.
MZP President H. Lalthianghlima reminded the audience that Remna Ni belongs to all Mizo people and should unite citizens beyond politics or generation. He said the day is not about glorifying the past, but about honouring unsung heroes and being grateful for the gift of peace.
Dignitaries in attendance included Home Minister K. Sapdanga, Ministers B. Lalchhanzova and F. Rodingliana, Deputy Speaker Lalfamkima, Adviser to the Chief Minister Lalmuanpuia Punte, and other senior leaders.
Since 2018, the MZP has honoured individuals and organisations who contributed to Mizoram’s peace. Previous awardees include Lal Thanhawla, Laldenga, Lalkhama, H.S. Luaia, Rev. Dr. Zairema, Rev. Dr. Lalngurauva Ralte, Lalduhoma, Rev. Dr. Lalsawma, the Mizoram Kohhran Hruaitu Committee, J.H. Rothuama, P. Lalupa, Lalthanzauva, and Ngurchhina.
No peace honours were conferred this year.
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