The Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP) or the Mizo Students’ Association has sought apology from the Central Government for the Aizawl bombing on March 5, 1966 by the then Indira Gandhi government.
This was unanimously decided at a programme held at Dawrpui Multi-purpose Centre to observe the 9th Zoram Ni on Wednesday.
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While it’s the 9th year that Zoram Ni is being observed, the actual reason this day is observed is to mark the 53 anniversary of the the aerial bombing of Aizawl by the then Central Government led by Indira Gandhi.
The bombing of Aizawl by Indian Air Force using incendiary bombs and machine guns had left many civilians dead though Indira Gandhi had denied the same saying the IAF only dropped rice supplies.
Seeking an apology from the Central Government, the MZP president, L Ramdinliana Renthlei said, “The Indian government bombed its citizens and ruthlessly abused and raped the people and they need to apologize to the State.”
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“On March 5, 1966, the small and peaceful territory of Mizoram was attacked by the Indian Air Force (IAF) using dreadful bombs upon innocent citizens. The incident cannot die in the Mizo youth and today we remember the day Indian government gave an answer using a bomb to its innocent citizens,” he said.
“Mizoram was never a part of India, and someday God will make us free from this bondage,” said the MZP president.
Also focusing on the need for Mizo nationalism, the chief guest of the programme, state home minister Lalchamliana said there is a fight between ‘Indian nationalism and Mizo nationalism in our State, but we are happy that the youth are leaning towards Mizo nationalism’.
However, former chief minister and Congress president, Lal Thanhawla, said while it was unfortunate that Aizawl was bombed 53 years ago, it was a reaction from the Central Government due to the rebellious movements of the State, and was a required order of procession.