MNF Alleges Mizoram Government Considering Capital Shift from Aizawl to Thenzawl

The opposition Mizo National Front (MNF) has alleged that the government led by Chief Minister Lalduhoma is considering a proposal to shift the state capital from Aizawl to Thenzawl, sparking a fresh political row in Mizoram. The claim was made by MNF youth wing president Robert Romawia Royte while addressing a rally ahead of the Aizawl Municipal Corporation elections . Royte alleged that the Chief Minister was actively pursuing plans to relocate the administrative seat and had even sought financial support for the move. “The Chief Minister has expressed his desire to relocate the state capital from Aizawl to Thenzawl and has already sought funds for this transition. Such a decision should involve consultations with civil society organisations and church bodies. This is nothing short of an insult to the people of Aizawl,” Royte said. He further claimed that Lalliansawta, president of the ruling Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM), had indicated support for shifting the state Assembly to a rural location. Royte also referred to remarks allegedly made by ZPM MLA Lalmuanpuia Punte in the Assembly, suggesting opposition to further expansion or development within Aizawl. According to him, such statements reflect an attempt to undermine the importance of the state capital. The MNF leader criticised the ruling ZPM, stating that such proposals demonstrate that the party is not suited to govern the Aizawl Municipal Corporation. However, Chief Minister Lalduhoma has earlier rejected claims of any plan to shift the capital. He clarified that the government’s focus is on developing a ‘peace city’ (Muanna Khawpui) in Thenzawl and adjoining areas in Serchhip district , and not on relocating the state capital. The issue has gained political traction in the run-up to the civic polls, with the opposition stepping up its attack on the ruling dispensation over governance and development priorities.