Mizoram: Mizo Students Association vows stronger action against Congress for fielding non mizo candidate in polls

The Mizo Students Association, commonly known as Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP), held an emergency meeting on October 19  to address concerns over the Indian National Congress (INC) nominating Mrs. Meriam L. Hrangchal as their official candidate for the Lunglei South Assembly constituency in Mizoram. The MZP, known for its commitment to preserving Mizo culture and identity, has raised objections to Mrs. Meriam's candidacy, citing her non-Mizo lineage due to her marriage to a non-Mizo individual.

The MZP's statement, issued after the emergency meeting, expressed their reservations about the nomination of Mrs. Meriam, who is married to Dipen Zoliana, the son of Niraj Singh, a non-Mizo, and Kawlhmingliani, whose heritage is of Gorkhali origin. According to the Mizo Customary Law, as published by the Law & Judicial Department of the Government of Mizoram (chapter 3:74), "A Mizo woman who marries a foreigner or non-Mizo is considered to belong to a foreigner's family."

This legal standpoint has fueled the MZP's concerns, as they view Mizo women married to foreigners as part of foreign families. Consequently, they believe that such individuals may not truly represent the interests and cultural heritage of the Mizo community, particularly in the highest legislative body.

The MZP has been consistent in its appeal to all political parties to refrain from nominating candidates with foreign spouses, emphasizing the importance of preserving Mizo identity. In their statement, they highlighted previous appeals, made on December 19, 2022, and again on August 21, 2023, where they urged political parties not to nominate candidates with foreign spouses. The MZP's persistence in these appeals has been noted.

Furthermore, the MZP has called upon the Mizo people to abstain from voting for candidates with foreign spouses in an effort to protect the values and traditions of Mizo society. The INC's decision to nominate Mrs. Meriam, a candidate with a foreign husband, has been met with strong condemnation from the MZP.

In an effort to emphasize their stance, the MZP has announced a protest march scheduled for Tuesday, October 20, 2023. This rally aims to draw attention to their concerns regarding candidates with foreign spouses and their potential impact on the Mizo community. The Mizo Students Association is gearing up for a resolute campaign, sending a clear message that they stand united in safeguarding their cultural heritage and values.