Mizzima
The Chief Minister of Mizoram State in India, Pu Lalduhoma, said that he will not repatriate Myanmar refugees currently seeking sanctuary in neighbouring Mizoram State.
The comment was made in a video broadcast at the 76th Chin National Day Ceremony held at the Multipurpose Hall in Dawrpui Ward, Aizawl Town, Mizoram State, on 19 and 20 February.
“Amidst the ongoing struggle for democracy, many refugees have sought refuge here. While the Indian government discusses their repatriation, I firmly believe that as brothers and sisters, it is not right to send them back. I have personally conveyed this sentiment to the Prime Minister, the Minister of Home Affairs, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs”, he said.
He also emphasised that refugees should respect Indian laws and highlighted that India was a country where the rule of law applies equally to everyone and discrimination is not tolerated.
The Chin National Day ceremony in Aizawl was organised by Chin nationals and local Mizoram people.
“In past years, our ethnic groups celebrated the national day separately. This year, we came together for the event, aiming to foster unity and harmony,” said Puzoe Twarlnga, Secretary of the Chin National Day Ceremony Organizing Committee.
Also attending the ceremony were Pu Lalsawivunga, the Minister of Art and Culture in Mizoram State, as well as former Chin State Chief Minister Salai Lian Luai. Representatives from various civil society organisations in Mizoram, including groups for youths students, women, the elderly, and representatives of the US-based Burma Advocacy Group.
Various Myanmar opposition figures wrote letters of congratulation to the Chin to mark the 76th Chin National Day. They included the National Unity Government (NUG) Acting President, Duwa Lashi La; the Union Prime Minister, Mahn Win Khaing Than; the Committee Representing the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, and the NUG Ministry of Defence.
