The Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP) on Wednesday demanded accountability for the assault on two Mizo policemen by Chakma women in Borapansury on August 19, 2024. To press their demands, the student body’s members gathered at the residences of Chakma MLAs Prova Chakma and RM Chakma in Aizawl. The MZP called for a legal case against the attackers and banned Chakma outdoor activities on Wednesday. Additionally, they requested a Magisterial Inquiry into the incident.
Conversely, a joint press release from NGOs of the Chakma Autonomous District Council presented a different version of events. The NGOs alleged that the police officers involved had damaged boats and assaulted women, leading to the altercation. They expressed gratitude to higher authorities for their intervention and support.
The MZP General Headquarters Executive Committee convened a meeting and reinforced their demand for legal action against the Chakma assailants, enforcing the ban on Chakma outdoor activities, and monitoring compliance through a workshop.
The MZP gathering at the Legislators’ Home concluded with several resolutions :
1. An FIR has been registered regarding the Borapansury incident, with the MZP urging the government to investigate and punish the perpetrators.
2. The Mizoram Government should conduct a Magisterial Inquiry into the assault on its citizens and swiftly punish the culprits.
The Chakma NGOs’ joint press release detailed an account of the incident, alleging that police officers Clifford MS Hriatzuala and H. Zothansanga, intoxicated and enraged, caused significant damage to boats valued at Rs. 200,000/- and assaulted the women who tried to intervene. The officers’ actions reportedly stemmed from frustration over hiring a boat for necessary travel.
Multiple local organizations, including the Young Chakma Association, intervened to mediate peace, resulting in an undertaking signed by the police officers.The NGOs criticized the officers’ habitual misconduct and thanked regional police officials for their support and timely intervention to maintain peace.
