Mizoram: N. Zangura Takes Charge as LADC CEM Amid Student Protest

However, his appointment has sparked political controversy, with the Lai Students Association (LSA) strongly opposing the move.

N. Zangura has taken oath as the new Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the Lai Autonomous District Council (LADC) following directives from Mizoram Governor Lt. Gen. V.K. Singh (Retd.). Zangura must secure a vote of confidence within 10 days of assuming office, as mandated by the Governor.

However, his appointment has sparked political controversy, with the Lai Students Association (LSA) strongly opposing the move. The LSA accused the council of becoming a platform for political horse-trading and power struggles, arguing that such developments have undermined the council’s credibility and hindered the welfare and progress of the Lai people.

In a statement, the LSA urged the Governor to dissolve the current LADC and conduct fresh elections before the scheduled polls in November. The association expressed deep concern over the repeated toppling of executive committees, which it claims has led to administrative paralysis and stalled development projects.

While the LSA recently called off a two-day blockade of the Deputy Commissioner’s office and LADC premises, it pledged to continue opposing Zangura’s appointment.

In response, the Lawngtlai district units of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Mizo National Front (MNF) issued a joint statement defending the Governor’s decision. They argued that Zangura’s appointment followed democratic procedures, noting that he had demonstrated a majority among the elected Members of District Council (MDC).

The BJP and MNF also questioned the LSA’s “selective activism,” pointing out that the student body remained silent during the tenure of former CEM V. Zirsanga, who they said had stayed in office despite reportedly losing his majority. The parties further referenced Zirsanga’s past conviction in a corruption case and his time in jail.

Additionally, the parties criticised the involvement of schoolchildren in recent protests, citing Section 83(2) of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, which prohibits the participation of children in political demonstrations. They condemned the alleged blockade of government employees from their offices, calling on the LSA to focus on its core mandate of promoting education and to avoid political entanglements.

They urged all stakeholders to uphold democratic values through lawful and constructive means of expression, stressing the need for stability and unity in the region.

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