In a recent statement, the Mizo National Front (MNF) has accused the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) government of ignoring the escalating areca nut smuggling crisis in Mizoram. The MNF claims the government is turning a blind eye to the issue due to the alleged involvement of ZPM party members in the smuggling ring.
An MNF official highlighted a recent incident where Mizoram Police seized 145 bags of areca nuts in Phaisen on 7 July 2024. The owner of the seized goods is believed to be Lalchhuanliana from Ruantlang, who serves as the Joint Secretary of Information for the ZPM Champhai South Block. Furthermore, his sister is a ZPM Village Council (VC) member in Ruantlang, and her husband allegedly holds the position of President of the ZPM Champhai South Block.
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The godown where the areca nuts were stored is owned by Laltanpuia, the ZPM Secretary in Phaisen. The MNF official claimed that despite having clear evidence of this smuggling ring, the ZPM government has not taken any action to stop it.
“We want them to stop this vile act. It shows that the ZPM government neglects the plight of areca nut farmers and, if it is for the gain of party members, they can turn a blind eye to the incidents,” the MNF official stated.
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