“With less than a week remaining for the Mizoram Assembly election, Sonia Gandhi, the Chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party, has made an appeal to the people of the northeastern state. She urged them to cast their votes in favor of her party, emphasizing that the MNF and the ZPM, despite claiming to be independent, serve as gateways for the BJP to enter the state.
In a video message, Sonia Gandhi shared her fond memories of the state, stating, ‘I’m sure you all know that Mizoram holds a special place in my heart. I have visited many times over the years. Your customs, culture, the beauty, and the richness of your land have made a lasting impression on me. Most importantly, I have never forgotten the warmth and affection you have shown me.'”
“I have cherished memories of my family’s visit to Mizoram, especially following the historic Mizo Peace Accord signed on June 30, 1986. This Accord is commemorated every year as Remna Ni.
Taking aim at the central government, she expressed, ‘Today, democracy is facing challenges from the BJP and RSS in Mizoram, across the northeast, and throughout India.’
She accused the BJP and the RSS of disregarding diversity, democracy, and dialogue, instead aiming to impose uniformity across the country. Sonia Gandhi highlighted how the BJP has pushed laws in Parliament that weaken tribal land and forest rights, as well as stifled the voice of the Mizoram Member of Parliament. She cited the situation in Manipur, where the BJP has exacerbated societal divisions with no efforts towards reconciliation, despite six months of suffering. The Prime Minister’s absence from the state was also noted.
Regarding Mizoram’s ruling MNF and the ZPM, she contended that while they claim to be independent, in reality, they serve as gateways for the BJP to enter Mizoram. She affirmed that the Congress party would not compromise with the BJP.
Sonia Gandhi emphasized that only the Congress can ensure the development, empowerment, and protection of the weakest members of Mizorean society. She pointed to the party’s successful governance in states like Karnataka, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Himachal Pradesh as evidence of its ability to deliver on promises. She stressed the Congress’s commitment to preserving the Mizo way of life, as outlined in Article 371-G of the Indian Constitution, a legacy of Rajiv Gandhi.
Consequently, she made a personal appeal, especially to the youth and women of Mizoram, urging them to vote for the Congress for peace, progress, and prosperity in the state.
The Mizoram Assembly election, with 40 members, is set for November 7, with vote counting scheduled for December 3.”