Context: It is imperative for India’s larger polity to take full cognizance of the sheer diversity and complexity of nation, instead of confusing the yearning for unity with National Homogeneity.
Longstanding Mizoram Dispute:
Sections of Mizo never reconciled with British annexation of their lands and the arbitrary border with Assam.
The bitterness of Mizo towards India due to Indian Airforce bombing in 1966 to quell the Mizo uprising.
Mizoram was made a Union Territory in 1972
Assigning of full statehood in 1987 - after signing of Mizo Accord in 1986 with Laldenga, representing Mizo National Front.
Closure of a crucial highway on the border of Assam-Mizoram in 2020 due to clashes, which led to Mizoram’s Chief Minister procuring supplies from Bangladesh and Myanmar.
Way Ahead:
Inter-State Council must be revived to strengthen federal ties
India has to learn to place equal importance on both elements of Unity in Diversity; Not acknowledging diversity can derail unity.