Union Territory of Mizoram
Union Territory of Mizoram Mizoram[1] | |||||||||
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Union Territory of India | |||||||||
1972–1987 | |||||||||
Capital | Aizawl | ||||||||
Population | |||||||||
• 1971 | 292,386 | ||||||||
• 1981 | 493,757[2] | ||||||||
Government | |||||||||
Chief Minister | |||||||||
• 1972–1977 | C. Chhunga | ||||||||
• 1978 | T. Sailo | ||||||||
• 1979–1984 | T. Sailo | ||||||||
• 1984–1986 | Lal Thanhawla | ||||||||
Historical era | Cold War | ||||||||
• Union Territory established | 19 January 1972 | ||||||||
30 June 1986 | |||||||||
• Statehood | 20 February 1987 | ||||||||
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Today part of | Mizoram |
The Union Territory of Mizoram, spanning from 1972 to 1987, was formed as a response to the Mizo people's demand for greater autonomy.[3] During this time period, reforms in administration and preservation of Mizo culture started.
Background
[edit]The Mizo National Front (MNF), formed in 1961, sought to address the perceived neglect and exploitation of the Mizo people by the central government. The insurgency led to unrest, conflicts, and demands for political autonomy. The North-Eastern Areas (Reorganisation) Act, 1971 stripped the Mizo district from the administration of the State of Assam. The formation of the Union Territory was part of a broader effort to recognise and respect the unique cultural and historical identity of the Mizo people.
The Union Territory of Mizoram was established with three administrative districts. Namely Aizawl, Lunglei, and Chhimpuitui.
Events
[edit]Chapchar Kut, a traditional Mizo festival (also named by some as Mizo New Year[4]), was officially revived in the mid-1970s during Mizoram's Union Territory phase.[5] The festival had been discontinued during the period of Christian missionary influence and British colonial rule.
One of the most significant administrative achievements during this period was the signing of the Mizoram Peace Accord in 1986. This accord brought an end to years of insurgency, contributing to political stability and laying the foundation for further development and governance reforms.
References
[edit]- ^ "Mizo Chanchin, Bu II – A History of Lushai Hills, Part II [1947]", British Library, EAP454/13/12, https://eap.bl.uk/archive-file/EAP454-13-12
- ^ "Census of India Website: Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India". www.censusindia.gov.in.
- ^ Lodrick, D. O. (2024, January 29). Mizoram. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/place/Mizoram
- ^ https://www.vanglaini.org/article/58565
- ^ https://mizoram.nic.in/about/oriofchapcharkut.htm