‘Development in Mizoram on vacation under Cong’

In its 31-year-history as a state, Mizoram has been governed by either the Congress or the regional heavyweight, Mizo National Front (MNF). As the state votes on November 28, it is again a direct fight between the two parties. With the ruling Congress battling anti-incumbency and desertions, the MNF is confident of returning to power after a 10-year gap. In an interview with former chief minister and MNF president Zoramthanga speaks about the party’s prospects and the issues at hand. Edited excerpts:

Utpal Parashar,

Development is on chutti [vacation] under Congress rule in Mizoram. The state economy is in shambles. Government employees are dissatisfied and the general public hasn’t benefitted. Mizoram has lagged behind other states in several key sectors. The condition of roads in the state is one example - many people say the roads in Mizoram are in the intensive care unit. 500 policemen, have died in Mizoram in the past three years due to alcohol-related causes. The quality of liquor being sold is very poor. Lifting of the ban has led to several social problems and there has been a sudden rise in the number of widows. If we come to power, we will ban alcohol, as promised. We will improve the health care sector and ensure selfsufficiency in food with better policies for farmers. Development in Mizoram is affected due to bad roads. We will focus on ensuring all parts of the state are connected with good and well-maintained roads. ter. We wanted to give tickets to women this time. Unfortunately, we failed to find any suitable candidate who stood a chance at winning. We are a part of NEDA because of our opposition to Congress. That partnership is restricted only to Lok Sabha and doesn’t apply to assembly polls. Both the BJP and the MNF are contesting the polls on their own and there’s no question of any secret deal. Mizoram is a Christian-majority state and voters are not going to accept BJP’S agenda.