With the Mizoram state assembly elections slated for November 7, tensions are brewing in Mizoram adjoining Tripura regions as political parties from Mizoram face allegations of setting up booth offices and government facilities within Tripura’s borders. Local NGOs and social organizations have brought to light a long-standing land dispute between the two states, particularly in the Phuldungsai and Kanpui areas of Jampui Hills, which is believed to be at the root of the encroachments.
In a press conference held on Sunday at the office of Oricherra Bro Sangma in Kanchanpur sub-division, representatives from three social organizations voiced their concerns about the encroachments. The members of Bro Sangramaimato, Chakma Students Association, and social workers representing the Bengali community, including Arun Nath, Babu Jai Reang, and Prashanta Chakma, addressed the media.
The representatives highlighted the establishment of booth offices and government facilities by certain political parties from Mizoram in various locations within Tripura. They took this opportunity to inform the Tripura government about these developments and expressed their demand for a joint demarcation of land boundaries based on land-related documents and maps from 1970.
Historically, they asserted that the eastern part of the Langai River belongs to Mizoram, while the western part falls under Tripura’s jurisdiction. The representatives alleged that Mizoram has encroached upon the western side of the Langai River. The situation is further complicated by the fact that some residents in the disputed area possess Tripura voter ID cards and ration cards, while others hold Mizoram voter ID cards and ration cards.
The representatives urged the government to conduct a thorough and impartial inquiry into the matter. Additionally, they announced their intention to submit a memorandum to Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha through the administrative channels on Monday. They warned of a potential escalation of the issue if it remains unresolved. The situation is being closely monitored as both states grapple with the complex land dispute on the eve of the Mizoram state assembly elections.
