Mizoram: Chakma autonomous council chief wins floor test, BJP-ZPM alliance retains power

Aizawl, Jul 9 (PTI) Mizoram's Chakma Autonomous District Council's Chief Executive Member (CEM) Nirupam Chakma on Thursday won a floor test, securing the support of 18 members in the 20-strong council, ensuring that the BJP-ZPM alliance retained power in the body, officials said. The confidence motion, conducted under the chairmanship of Deputy Chairman Sundor Muni Chakma, was passed with 18 votes in favour. The lone Mizo National Front (MNF) member, Rasik Mohan Chakma, remained absent from the sitting, they said. Chakma was sworn in as the CEM on Wednesday after being appointed by the governor of Mizoram following his election as the leader of the Chakma Democratic Alliance Legislature Party, a coalition of the BJP and the Zoram People's Movement (ZPM). The governor directed him to seek a vote of confidence within seven days of assuming office. The CADC currently has 20 elected members, including 10 from the BJP, nine from the ZPM and one from the MNF, giving the ruling alliance a decisive majority. Speaking after the floor test, Nirupam Chakma thanked council members for reposing faith in his leadership and the governor for facilitating the restoration of an elected government after nearly a year of governor's rule. He said the remaining members of the executive committee would soon be inducted to ensure the council functions effectively in accordance with the provisions of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. The CEM said the new coalition government would prioritise improving road connectivity, upgrading school infrastructure, expanding access to safe drinking water and strengthening healthcare services across the council's jurisdiction. He also identified youth employment and skill development as key focus areas, while stressing the need for close coordination with the Mizoram government and the Centre to accelerate development in the CADC. He expressed confidence that the council would contribute to the national vision of 'Viksit Bharat'. Chakma's swearing on Wednesday marked the end of the governor's rule in the council after a year. The CADC was placed under the governor's rule for a year between July 7, 2025 and July 7, 2026 due to prolonged political instability caused by frequent change in leadership. The CADC governs parts of Lawngtlai district of southern Mizoram. PTI CORR ACD