Opposition in Mizoram Demands Repeal of Forest Conservation Act

Opposition parties and various organizations in Mizoram have strongly criticized the Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act (FCAA), 2023, recently adopted by the state Assembly. They label the act as a “serious threat” to the region and are calling for its repeal. The Assembly passed a resolution to extend the FCAA, 2023, to Mizoram during its recent monsoon session, following a motion introduced by Environment, Forests and Climate Change Minister Lalthansanga on August 27, 2023.

The main opposition party, the Mizo National Front (MNF), alongside the Congress, the Zo Re-Unification Organisation (ZORO), and the Joint Civil Society Mizoram (CJM), has expressed significant concerns regarding the implications of the new law. They argue that it grants excessive power to the central government over land management, which they believe undermines the interests of the Mizo people.

In a recent statement, MNF media cell secretary Lallianmawia Jongte indicated that the party has submitted a petition to Assembly Speaker Lalbiakzama, urging him to convene a special session to rescind the resolution. Jongte emphasized that the MNF opposes the FCAA, 2023, as it jeopardizes land rights and safety for the Mizo population. The party had previously adopted a resolution against the amendment law when it was in power, following consultations with political entities, churches, and civil society organizations on August 22, 2023.

The ZORO and CJM echoed the MNF’s sentiments, insisting on the withdrawal of the resolution and warning of possible protests should the government fail to respond to their demands. ZORO vice president Ramdinliana Renthlei articulated concerns that the law could lead to serious consequences for indigenous communities. The provision exempting a 100-kilometer area along international borders allows the central government to undertake “strategic linear projects of national importance” without requiring forest clearance.

Renthlei also pointed out that the FCAA, 2023, infringes on the rights of the Mizo people as enshrined in Article 371G of the Indian Constitution. This article specifies that no parliamentary act concerning land ownership and transfer may apply to Mizoram unless endorsed by the state Assembly. He further asserted that the legislation violates Article 244, which protects the authority of Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) and states under the Fifth and Sixth Schedules.

During discussions in the Assembly, Chief Minister Lalduhoma defended the amendment act, stating that its adoption is necessary as the principal Forest Conservation Act of 1980 is already in force in the state. A leader of the ruling party, who requested anonymity, noted that the resolution was primarily adopted for developmental purposes.

While the CJM acknowledged that the FCAA, 2023, may aim to facilitate development, it also raised alarms about the potential risks it poses to the people of Mizoram and neighboring regions. The organization asserted that the state’s lands should not be compromised for development, indicating that alternative paths to development exist under current laws.

As the situation develops, the opposition’s unified stance against the Forest Conservation Amendment Act highlights significant concerns regarding land rights and environmental protection in Mizoram. The demand for repeal reflects deep-rooted apprehensions about the centralization of power and its impacts on local communities.