Aizawl: Cadres of the Hmar Peoples’ Convention (Democratic) – Lalhmingthanga Sanate faction formally returned to the mainstream on Wednesday, laying down their arms and embracing a peaceful life. The Home Coming & Arms Laying Ceremony was held at the Central Training Institute Parade Ground in Sesawng in the presence of Chief Minister Lalduhoma.
The event was attended by Speaker Lalbiakzama, Home Minister K. Sapdanga, a Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha), the Deputy Speaker, Adviser to the Chief Minister, along with ministers and MLAs.
The ceremony follows the peace agreement signed on April 14, 2026, between the Mizoram government and the HPC(D) Lalhmingthanga Sanate faction at Sakawrdaia. Wednesday’s event formally marked the laying down of arms in accordance with that pact.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Lalduhoma said that discussions on peace in Mizoram have long been linked to the HPC(D) issue, and reiterated that his government has consistently remained open to dialogue. He commended the Home Minister and officials involved for their efforts, adding that Mizoram can now be confidently described as a truly peaceful state.
Stressing unity, he said there is no division within the Mizo community and warned that any attempt to create divisions would not succeed. He called on citizens to remain united and work collectively towards progress.
Highlighting the significance of the moment, Lalduhoma described peace as “hard-earned” and acknowledged the courage of the cadres who chose to lay down arms. He urged people to reject any ideology or action that could lead to unrest and to safeguard the state’s stability.
Home Minister K. Sapdanga termed the occasion “historic” and welcomed the cadres into the mainstream. He credited the Chief Minister’s commitment to peace as a key factor behind the breakthrough, and encouraged the former insurgents to work with the government for the state’s development.
Speaker Lalbiakzama also expressed satisfaction over the agreement, noting that as the only ruling party MLA from the Hmar Demand Area, peace in the region has been a top priority.
Lalhmingthanga Sanate, leader of the faction, said the decision to join the peace process was influenced by positive developments under the present government. He cited infrastructure initiatives such as the Unity Bridge and improvements to the Mauchar road, adding that while the agreement may not fulfil all expectations, it is “acceptable and satisfactory.”
The ceremony began with a Bible reading and prayer led by Pastor Lalhmunsiama of ICI, Sesawng. Home Secretary Vanlalmawia delivered the welcome address. The cadres then formally handed over their arms to IGP (Headquarters) H. Ramthlengliana, followed by an oath-taking ceremony led by Sr. SP (CID) Stephen Lalrinawma, where they pledged to renounce violence. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by MLA and Adviser to the Chief Minister, Lalmuanpuia Punte.
For context, the roots of the HPC trace back to post-1986 sentiments among sections of the Hmar community who felt their aspirations were unmet despite the historic peace accord. A 1994 agreement led to the formation of the Sinlung Hills Development Council, but splinter groups emerged over time. While one faction signed a peace deal in 2018, talks with the Lalhmingthanga Sanate faction resumed in 2024 and concluded after four rounds of negotiations earlier this month.
With this development, Mizoram no longer has any active underground ethnic insurgent groups.
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