The Mizo National Front (MNF) has declared a statewide bandh across Mizoram on Wednesday, from 6 am to 4 pm, in protest against the Forest Amendment Act, 2023. The party, which has been vocal about environmental and tribal rights, stated that the new amendment poses a serious threat to the interests of indigenous communities and the ecological balance of the state.
The MNF, a major regional political force in Mizoram, said the bandh is a symbolic expression of public discontent against the central government’s move to modify existing forest regulations. According to party leaders, the amendment allows for increased commercial exploitation of forest areas and undermines the constitutional protections guaranteed to tribal populations living in these regions.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the MNF urged citizens, civil society groups, and student organizations to support the peaceful bandh. The party emphasized that essential services, including healthcare, electricity, water supply, and transportation for emergencies, would remain unaffected. Public transport, educational institutions, and government offices, however, are expected to see limited activity during the ten-hour shutdown.
Local authorities have stepped up security measures across major towns and districts in anticipation of the bandh. Police and district officials have been instructed to ensure law and order while respecting the public’s right to peaceful protest. The state government has appealed to the people to maintain calm and avoid any form of violence or disruption.
The Forest Amendment Act, passed by Parliament earlier this year, has faced criticism from several northeastern states and environmental groups. Critics argue that the legislation weakens the Forest Conservation Act, 1980, by easing the process of diverting forest land for developmental projects. Many fear that this could lead to large-scale deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and displacement of tribal populations who depend on forest resources for their livelihood.
Supporters of the amendment, however, contend that the changes are aimed at promoting infrastructure growth and national security projects, especially in border areas. They argue that the revised law provides a more streamlined framework for balancing environmental concerns with the country’s development goals.
In Mizoram, where over 80 percent of the land is covered by forests, the issue has struck a particularly sensitive chord. Environmental activists and student unions, including the Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP), have voiced their support for the MNF’s call, citing long-term environmental risks. Several NGOs have also expressed concern about the potential erosion of community forest rights.
As the bandh progresses, most businesses and public institutions are expected to remain closed, while essential operations continue under security supervision. The MNF has reiterated that its movement will remain peaceful and democratic, stressing that its goal is to protect Mizoram’s natural heritage and the rights of its indigenous people.
