Aizawl: R Lalrodingi, officer on special duty to the chief minister, who was recently re-employed and appointed director of the tourism department by the Mizoram government, resigned from the post on Thursday amid protests by the student body Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP).
Resignation letter details
In her resignation letter submitted to Chief Minister Lalduhoma, Lalrodingi stated that she was appointed director of tourism to ensure that the development of tourism in the state would not be hampered. However, she noted that her appointment was strongly opposed by MZP, leading to the closure of the office and a complete stoppage of all work.
She further mentioned that she was held accountable for the disruption in the tourism department's functioning, while the government faced accusations of favoritism. She expressed her belief that these accusations should end and requested the chief minister to remove her from the post.
Appeal to chief minister
Lalrodingi appealed to the chief minister to retain the position of director of tourism and assign it to departmental officers after she vacated the role.
MZP withdraws agitation
The Mizo Zirlai Pawl, which had picketed the tourism department's office for three consecutive days, withdrew its agitation following the resignation. The student body stated that it would continue to oppose any move by the government to re-employ or extend the service of any retired government employees.
The development highlights the ongoing tensions between the state government and student organizations over appointments of retired officials. The tourism department, which had been paralyzed by the protests, is expected to resume normal operations after the appointment of a new director.
