In a significant political realignment, the Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC) in Mizoram witnessed a dramatic shift on Sunday as five elected members resigned from the ruling Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The move involves the withdrawal of their support from ZPM legislature party leader Lakhan Chakma.
A Major Defection Reshapes Council Equations
The five Members of the District Council (MDCs) who crossed over are Mohan Chakma, Santosh Chakma, Montu Chakma, Amit Bayan Chakma, and Sundor Muni Chakma. They formally submitted their joining letters to BJP CADC district president Durjya Dhan Chakma at his residence in a ceremony attended by senior BJP leaders from the council.
Explaining their decision to the BJP's IT and Media Cell, the newly inducted members stated they had lost confidence in the ZPM's leadership and its functioning. They pointed to persistent political instability and administrative uncertainty within the council, describing the situation in the CADC as "grave." They expressed faith that the BJP was the sole viable platform to protect the interests of the council and its people.
Implications for Council Stability and Governance
This defection deals a blow to the ZPM, which had previously claimed the support of 16 MDCs in the 20-member council. With the exit of five members, its strength is reduced to 11. While this number is still sufficient to form an executive committee, BJP leader Durjya Dhan Chakma hinted at further political movements. He suggested that two more ZPM MDCs might switch allegiance to the Mizo National Front (MNF), which could potentially open the door for a coalition government.
Welcoming the new members, Durjya Dhan Chakma asserted that their induction would bolster the BJP's dedication to working for the welfare, dignity, and constitutional rights of the CADC's populace.
Background of Prolonged Instability and Governor's Rule
The CADC has been under Governor’s Rule since July 7 following extended periods of instability and allegations of irregular appointments. The Gauhati High Court, on November 19, upheld the imposition of Governor’s Rule, noting that the governor had rightfully exercised constitutional discretionary powers. The court emphasized that restoring political stability should be a priority and recommended a floor test to determine majority support as per the Sixth Schedule provisions.
The current crisis has deep roots. It intensified earlier this year when 12 BJP MDCs defected to the ZPM in mid-June, leading to the collapse of the BJP-led executive committee. Although the ZPM subsequently staked a claim to form a new administration, the Governor decided to impose direct rule. This decision was opposed by the state council of ministers, including Chief Minister Lalduhoma, who advocated for allowing a popularly elected executive committee to take charge.
The latest defection marks another turbulent chapter in the CADC's political saga, raising questions about the immediate prospects for ending Governor's Rule and establishing a stable, majority-led government in the autonomous council.
